‘RESTO-READY’ PORSCHE 356A GOING TO AUCTION

A desirable Porsche 356A cabriolet, in project spec and requiring total restoration, is going to auction next week in Shannons’ Summer Timed Online Auction.

Factory-equipped with a 1600 Super engine, rare Karmann removable hardtop and even-rarer 15x4-inch Rudge knock-off wheels, this 356A 1600 Super Cabriolet is one of 1,382 examples built in 1958 and one of a handful that were Australian-delivered when new.

Sold new through Hamiltons in Melbourne, other features on this 356A as delivered included a black convertible folding top, Koni shock absorbers, green-tinted windscreen, electric clock, sunblind with make-up mirrors, 'Ponto' exterior mirrors, Bosch 40/45-watt headlamps and “USA” bumpers.

The Porsche’s early history after arrival in Australia is unknown, but it’s believed to have been with one owner until 1970, when it surfaced in Queensland, sold through Brisbane's Maxim Motors. The second owner paid a documented $1,162 for it, minus a $250 trade-in on a VW Beetle. Regularly used thereafter, the car was a standout in the Sunshine State, not least for its model-specific Queensland registration of ‘356-POR’.

In 1995, the car was stored beneath a church in the Brisbane suburb of Newmarket, where it sat for the next 25 years until it was rediscovered and consigned for next week’s Shannons auction.

Coming to auction with 12,482 miles on the odometer (believed genuine), the Porsche is expected to sell for $90,000-$120,000, which is less than half of what the same model could fetch in fully restored condition.

While the new owner will most likely treat the Porsche to a comprehensive restoration, Shannons believe its exceptionally 'cool' patina might prompt the purchaser to restore the car mechanically and preserve its current exterior, creating the ultimate classic Porsche conversation piece.

This 1958 Porsche 356A 1600 Super Cabriolet is one of almost 175 lots consigned for the Shannons Summer Timed Online Auction, which runs from 16 to 23 February.