1963 Porsche 356 Carrera 2 Coupe

Dr. Ernst Furhmann’s race-bred Carrera engine saw its greatest expression yet at the 1961 Frankfurt Motor Show, where Porsche introduced a reinvigorated two-liter displacement variant of its premium performance model. Employing the most important architectural elements of Fuhrmann’s celebrated Type 547 motor, including twin ignition, twin carburetors, and four-cam valve actuation, the new Carrera motor was dubbed the Type 587, and developed an unprecedented 152 hp.

The Carrera 2 was the first Porsche road car to feature four-wheel disc brakes and went on to become the most popular Carrera yet, winning races and rallies while trimmed for the utmost comfort. Just 436 examples of the model were manufactured through 1964 and, though the engine would live on in the limited-production 904 GTS race car.

This outstanding Carrera 2 is documented with a copy of the Kardex and a Porsche Certificate of Authenticity, which indicate that the car is presented with overwhelming authenticity, featuring the original color scheme of Signal Red paint over an interior of tan leather. Also optioned with a Blaupunkt radio with antenna and two speakers, three-point safety belts, and chrome wheels fitted with Dunlop tires, this Porsche was additionally equipped with a fire extinguisher with the retaining bolts still evident on the passenger-side floorboard.

Benefiting from more than 20 years of care by three dedicated collectors, the Carrera was cosmetically restored in 2009 by Liberty Motorsports in Costa Mesa, California. Additionally, the powerful Type 587 engine was refreshed by Richardson Restorations and has since accrued approximately 2,000 miles. Notably, the engine, chassis, and body panel stampings correspond to Porsche factory documents.

Accompanied by an authentic tool kit and jack, this beautifully presented Carrera 2 features a correct four-cam Type 587 Carrera engine, ensuring that the Porsche is properly equipped with its historically important namesake motor. The cosmetic finishes are no less impressive, with correct VDO gauges, an elegant wood-rimmed steering wheel, and tan leather upholstery complementing the arresting Signal Red exterior that features the proper Carrera script and unique rear bumper apron with exhaust valances. This well-documented and carefully maintained Carrera 2 is a highly desirable example of one of Porsche’s most important vintage road machines – the ultimate expression of Zuffenhausen’s dual-purpose road and racing design brief.