1961 Porsche 356B Roadster
HIGHLIGHTS
One of 475 356B d’Ieteren Freres Roadsters Built
Porsche Kardex Documenting Matching Numbers
Original Engine and Original Transaxle
SPECIFICATIONS
Chassis Number - 89024
Engine – 1.6L, 4 Cylinder
Gearbox – 4 Speed Manual
Drivetrain - Rear-Engine, RWD
PRICING INFORMATION
Price - Please Inquire
OVERVIEW
With its unique profile, nimble driving manners, and race-inspired lineage, the legendary Porsche 356 remains one of the most sought-after vintage sports cars. Introduced in 1948, the 356 benefited from continual refinements including the Speedster and roadster variant which would see the phasing out of the roadster platform by the early 1960s, leaving the Cabriolet as the final iteration into the C series. In the last of the roadster series, these cars offered roll up windows, a more functional top, and a removable windshield should ambition for dual purpose race duty entice an adventurous owner. Though most roadster production was completed with bodies built by Drauz, in 1961 the final iteration of the roadsters were bodied by d’Ieteren Freres in Belgium. As such, the rarity, drivability, and attractive design has continued to make these cars highly desirable today.
According to a copy of the Kardex included with this car, this Porsche 356 was completed June 12, 1961, finished in Heron Grey with blue interior. After completion, the car was delivered to Hoffman Motors and purchased by the first documented owner, Philadelphia, PA resident Robert Barry. Though there is some indication that this may have been the same Robert Barry—the conceptual artist active during that period—regardless of the prior owner’s identity, the car remained in the United States until its purchase in 1999 by a long-term Australian owner, who restored it and retained ownership through 2023. Under his prior ownership, this 356 was treated to a thorough restoration including the preservation of the matching engine and transaxle and the restoration of as many of the original components as possible.
Performed in Australia by marque professionals, the restoration included metal work for the tub, exterior body and paint work in silver, interior reupholstered in black leatherette, correct carpets, and a canvas top with matching tonneau cover. Mechanical attention was also delivered at a high level including the engine which was rebuilt under the supervision of the former Managing Director of Porsche Cars in Australia, (Alan Hamilton). During the engine rebuild the decision was made to rebuild the original engine with a desirable big bore kit, increasing the displacement to 1,720cc which greatly improves power output. The matching numbers transaxle was rebuilt by Porsche specialist Charles Appel in Brisbane, Australia. After the restoration was completed, the former owner enjoyed the car for 24 years until it was sold in 2023 to the current owner.
Documented as one of 475 356 d’Ieteren Freres Roadsters, this high-quality restoration continues to offer finishes ready for local Porsche club tours or entrance into shows. The silver finish is smooth, glossy, and properly balanced with micro-flake metallic consistent with Porsche finishes of the period. The car also displays properly finished door jambs and underside panels, and clean detailing around surface mounted components. The trim is in excellent condition overall including the exterior door handles, excellent vivid colored lenses, and correct exterior lighting. The panel gaps are consistent and the doors open and shut with positive latching. The engine lid (with original “24” stamping still visible) and front storage area also offer excellent closure and release from inside the cabin. Handsome details include dual rear exit exhaust through the rear bumper uprights, amber and rear teardrop tail lights, a taut black canvas top, a matching tonneau cover, and a distinctive d’Ieteren Freres body badge mounted on the passenger side front fender. Outfitted with silver finished ventilated wheels and chrome plated wheel covers, the stance and driving appeal is particularly sporty riding on a set of 165 SR15 tires.
The black leatherette interior presents very well with handsome finishes reflecting accurate restoration and ongoing care. The seats, matching door panels and pleated door pockets, correct low pile square weave carpeting, and black canvas convertible top are all similarly unified in fit and finish. The dashboard is particularly fine including restored instrumentation with contrasting dial faces and distinct green lettering. A correct black rim steering wheel featuring satin aluminum spokes, and a glossy Porsche center emblem provide the finishing touches to a purposeful interior.
Under the engine lid, the matching numbers engine and engine bay deliver a thoughtful and correct presentation using original components, a correct oil filter canister, correct dual metal canister air cleaners, and proper finishes including the engine shroud and engine bay. Having benefited from comprehensive engine and transmission rebuilds performed by Porsche experts, the matching numbers engine enjoys internally uprated displacement and horsepower which greatly contribute to the overall quality of the driving experience. The front storage compartment also bears the original chassis number on the center pan, and stores a factory jack. The undercarriage is representative of a well-cared for example with sound floor pans and battery box, and properly restored components including the correct numbers matching transmission.
Consistent with the excellent finishes, this 356 Roadster is a delight to drive, exhibiting smooth road manners and progressive acceleration through all gears up to highway speeds. The added power concealed in the big bore build allows for delightful power pulling in second and third gear where spirited driving is readily enjoyed in the 4-speed manual configuration. Handling is consistent with cars of this era, and braking is quite good, coming down from higher speeds with confidence. Best of all, the roadster configuration invites the pinnacle of the 356 experience – warm summer breezes, engine purring eagerly, and a smile on both driver and passenger, emulating the characteristic “smile line” that characterizes the earlier series 356 front view of the hood line.
Distinctive, rare in production as one of just 475 d’Ieteren Freres Roadsters, thoughtfully uprated power output, and beautiful restoration combine to deliver one of the best looking 356 Roadsters available on the market today.
Please contact Jason at +1-206-355-7727 or Hans at +1-425-417-5877 for more information on this vehicle.
