Equipment
Mismatched old tires (Michelin up front, Dunlop in back), gold brightwork, period Becker radio, partial tool kit, jack.
Condition
#4 Fair
Has visible flaws to the naked eye. Runs fine, but could use mechanical or cosmetic attention.
Sold new in Germany then purchased by an American serviceman and shipped to North Dakota, where it remained until recently. Not currently running. Cracked, chipped, dirty original paint. Pitted original wheels and ancient tires. The interior is complete but it is worn. The carpets are badly fraying in spots and the seats, while remarkably clean with little wear, have a few split seams. Good older replacement top. Oxidized and dirty underneath but no major rust, which is important on a 356. Of the three barn find 356s in this sale, this is the cleanest and strongest, plus the most desirably configured. It's still a total project, but not quite a basket case.
Market commentary
It has all the charm of a barn find, but it also won't be a complete nightmare to restore. It's one of several 356 Speedsters in similar condition to appear at auction over the past couple of years and, like all the rest, it commanded a significant premium for its originality and sold for a price that could buy a freshly redone car.