1965 Porsche 356

The Porsche 356 is a rear-engine sports car, and the first-ever production Porsche model. The 356 is a lightweight and nimble-handling, rear-engine, rear-wheel drive, two-door available both in hardtop coupé and open configurations. By the early 1950s, the 356 had gained some renown among enthusiasts on both sides of the Atlantic for its aerodynamics, handling, and excellent build quality. The class win at Le Mans in 1951 was a factor. Of the 76,000 originally produced, approximately half survive.


Porsche designers designed the 356's air-cooled pushrod OHV flat-four around the engine case originally designed for the Volkswagen Beetle, adding new cylinder heads, camshaft, crankshaft, intake and exhaust manifolds and dual carburetors, making 70 hp – more than double the Beetle's horsepower.


Key Features and Specifications


Performance: The 1600 C engine produces 74-75 bhp and 86 ft-lbs of torque, capable of 0–60 mph in 13.5 seconds.


Handling & Braking: A major upgrade for this model was the introduction of disc brakes on all four wheels, along with improved steering dampers.


Design: Similar to the 356 B T6, the C-series is distinguished by flatter hubcaps without the Porsche crest and round exterior mirrors.


Interior: Features included new seat bases for better lateral support, revised floor-mounted heater controls, and a handbrake warning light.


Production: The 356 C was produced from September 1963 through 1965, with over 16,500 units manufactured.


Originally ivory over black without the sunroof but changed to silver over black with an original sunroof (acquired from a donor 356) in the early 1990's. This Porsche maintains its original motor, rebuilt by known engine builder Tom Funk of Glenview, Illinois. Most recently worked on by Brandon Cummins of Be AirCooled also in Glenview, Illinois.