The 356 was the first automobile design bearing the Porsche name from inception, and immediately after its introduction in 1948, drew acclaim for its unique design, efficiency, and race-winning performance. Swift and constant development progressed through the 356A to the comprehensively updated 356B by 1959, with nearly 31,000 examples of the 356B produced, before the 1963 arrival of the 356C.

When the 356B debuted at Frankfurt in September 1959, it featured the new 'T-5' body style and many fine detail improvements, while available engine options remained unchanged. In the pages of Christophorus, Porsche's official magazine, Ferry Porsche stated, "When we do change something, we don't just make small alterations, following the dictates of fashion." Continuing, he said, "our refinements - and sometimes these are very numerous - are very often invisible ones. The engine, the road-holding, the safety, and the driving comfort: these things above all are the goal towards which we strive."  

This 1961 Porsche 356 B 1600 S Coupe is a prime example of these highly evolved and refined classic sports cars, featuring the top 90-horsepower '1600 S' road-engine specification. It joined its long-term single-family keepers in 1963, when it was purchased by a Ford Motor Company engineer from a fellow Ford engineer. The new owner’s nephew fell in love with the car and dreamed of one day owning it, an event fulfilled nearly 50 years later in 2010, when his uncle handed him the keys to the Porsche.

A complete restoration of this family heirloom followed, with the sleek, Reutter-built body given a bare-metal repaint in Signal Red and fitted with new Black leatherette upholstery and correct new carpeting. Other highlights include the upgraded sound deadening, a restored radio and gauges, and 6-volt Bi-LED lighting. The original '1600 S' flat-four engine was professionally rebuilt by Euromotorworks and Alpine Motor Werks, including updated valve seats to cope with today's unleaded gasolines. An upgraded clutch and the original four-speed manual gearbox deliver the power to the chrome Porsche wheels and wheel covers, wrapped in Michelin radial tires. The suspension and brakes were also restored, and a new electric fuel pump, electronic ignition, and new exhaust system were installed.

As now offered, this very well-restored, high-specification classic Porsche is accompanied by restoration invoices, a driver's manual, and a Porsche 356 B workshop manual, plus a tool roll, jack, and spare tire. A quick, nimble performer, this 1963 Porsche 356 B 1600 S Coupe is ready to deliver an unforgettable driving and ownership experience. Be sure to contact us today for a viewing appointment, obtain full details, and add it to your collection of one to many great postwar European sports cars!