1962 Porsche 356 B Super 90 Cabriolet

This Car

This beautifully restored Reutter-built cabriolet bears stunning testament to the handsome T-6 body style, which debuted on the 356 B platform in mid-1961. According to a certificate of authenticity from Porsche, this cabriolet completed assembly on November 29, 1961, and was optioned with a tinted windshield, Continental tires, and a Blaupunkt “Stuttgart” radio with two loudspeakers and antenna. Most importantly, the certificate also confirms that the cabriolet retains its original matching-numbers engine and transaxle. A look around the car reveals an overwhelming presence of matching date codes, including the wheels.

Prior to 2005, this 356 underwent a restoration in triple black by Classic Showcase of Oceanside, California. Then purchased by the consignor, a California-based collector, the cabriolet was deemed to still have room for cosmetic improvement, and the owner began to source and install various authentic accessories, such as Coco floor mats and a Nardi replica wood-rimmed steering wheel. The VDO gauges were rebuilt by North Hollywood Speedometer, who took the opportunity to convert the clock to a quartz movement.

The consignor also undertook a number of mechanical measures, including sourcing new Solex carburetors and rebuilding the brakes with a new dual-master cylinder, ensuring improved safety with enhanced stopping power. Still not completely satisfied with the Super 90 engine’s state of tune, the owner commissioned a mechanical overhaul by Larry Markham’s Markham Motor Works in Burbank in October 2007. Mr. Markham is well regarded among 356 aficionados for his expertise with the model, particularly with the high-performance Super 90 motor.

During the overhaul, new main bearings and rod bearings, pistons and rings, an aluminum oil cooler, and a new oil pump were installed. Mr. Markham also cleaned and tuned the carburetors, re-sealed the transmission with new boots and gaskets, and installed a new clutch and throw-out bearing. Less than 1,200 miles have accrued since this engine work, and the consignor reports that the car continues to perform admirably, offering its next owner many more years of enjoyable ownership.

Accompanied by the original restored jack, owner’s manuals, the Porsche certificate of authenticity, California yellow plates that are registered to the car, receipts, and a CD of restoration photos, this matching-numbers 356 is a beautiful example of an open Super 90. The cabriolet offers the unique thrill of Zuffenhausen open-air motoring or the challenge of concours competition, where the car should be competitive at numerous local events.