1961 Porsche 356 B Cabriolet 1600

Description

From the ashes of war, the Porsche 356 emerged, consistently refined during the 1950s as the company’s racing successes fed the development of the model. By 1960 the 356 B (T5) had emerged, redesigned from the previous 356 A. The key visual differences in the B series included the front bumper with enlarged overriders which was positioned ten centimeters higher, and the headlights which were also positioned much higher. The horn grilles next to the front turn indicators were flatter and featured two chrome-plated slats. The front lid handle was also wider at the bottom. The two lamps for the number plate lighting were integrated in the higher-positioned rear bumper, while the backup light was mounted below the bumper. Such continual refinement resulted in Car and Driver magazine saying of the 356 B, “After a wildly sporting youth, Porsches have at last settled into silver-templed maturity, bringing refinement and sophistication to the marque and, indeed, to the clientele.” 

This 356 B Cabriolet 1600 was sold new by Porsche dealer Pardee & Mozart in Palo Alto, California, in October 1961, and remained in the care of the same California family until 2022. 

Highlights 

• Single-family California ownership from new until 2022 

• Desirable Cabriolet body by Reutter with black convertible top 

• Engine upgraded to 1,750 cc with AA Performance Products cylinders, JE forged pistons, and a performance camshaft 

• Four speed manual transmission 

• Black leatherette upholstery and gray square-weave carpets 

• Service in 2022 included: 

  • Brake overhaul 

  • Oil leak repairs 

  • Valve adjustment 

Features 

• AM/FM/SW radio 

• Variable speed windshield wiper   

• Glare-proof rear view mirror   

• Ventilated rear window   

• Back-up light   

• Two-tone horn   

• Glove compartment with lock   

• Gearshift lock   

• Ash tray   

• Cigarette lighter combined with electrical outlet   

• Courtesy grip for passenger   

• Fasteners for luggage straps   

• Map pocket in each door   

• Heater and fresh air vents   

• 13.2 gallon fuel tank capacity   

• Wheelbase: 82.7 inches   

• Front Track: 51.4 inches   

• Rear Track: 50.1 inches   

• Length: 158 inches   

• Width: 65.8 inches   

• Height: 51.8 inches   

• Turning Circle: 33.5 feet   

• Dry weight (DIN) 2,060 pounds   

Known Imperfections 

• This 1961 Porsche 356 B Cabriolet 1600 is presented as a finely restored example and is said to be free from any substantial imperfections 

Included 

• Factory tool roll 

• Kardex 

• Original bill of sale 

• Manufacturers literature  

• Sales brochure 

Ownership History 

Sold new by Porsche dealer Pardee & Mozart in Palo Alto, California, on 12 October 1961, this 356 B Cabriolet 1600 remained in California in the care of one family until its sale in 2022. This fully documented, numbers matched Cabriolet has received one repaint in the 1990s, along with a recent engine overhaul that increased displacement to 1,750 cc.

Additional Notes 

Sales Tax Notice to Arkansas, Mississippi, and West Virginia Bidders: Because this car is located in Florida, Hagerty Marketplace may be required to collect and remit Florida sales tax on your purchase, even if you plan to register it outside of Florida.  Unlike most other states, the states of Arkansas, Mississippi, and West Virginia may not provide a full credit against sales taxes paid to Florida.  For additional information, please consult this publication and your own tax advisor regarding sales taxes applicable to cars located in Florida that are sold to residents of another state.