1964 Porsche 356C Cabriolet
Chassis no. 161391
Engine no. 716071

Cabriolets had been manufactured right from the start of 356 production, but the first open Porsche to make a significant impact was the Speedster, introduced in 1954 following the successful reception in the USA of a batch of 15 special roadsters. The Reutter-bodied Speedster was dropped in 1958 and replaced by the more civilised Convertible D, which differed principally by virtue of its larger windscreen and winding side windows. Porsche sub-contracted cabriolet body construction to a number of different coachbuilders, Convertible D production being undertaken by Drauz of Heilbronn. By the time the 356B arrived in September 1959, the car had gained a one-piece rounded windscreen and 15"-diameter wheels, and the newcomer's introduction brought with it further styling revisions and an engine now standardised at 1,600cc. Convertible D production transferred to d'Ieteren of Brussels. Outwardly very similar to the final 356Bs, the ultimate 356C model arrived in 1963 sporting four-wheel disc brakes - first seen on the 2-litre Carrera 2 - among numerous detail improvements. Engines available - both of 1.6 litres - were the 75bhp 'C' and 95bhp 'SC', the latter replacing the Super 90.

Currently in the hands of only its fourth owner, this matching-numbers 356C Cabriolet was sold new via Sonauto to a Mademoiselle Marguerite Lehoux of Paris and in 1972 was purchased from her by the Parisian concessionaire, Garage Gauthier. The car remained in its next owner's private collection for the following 33 years, covering only 95,000 kilometres, before being acquired by the immediately preceding owner in 2005.

In May 2007, the Porsche was offered for sale at Bonhams' Monaco auction (Lot 148) where it was purchased by the current owner. At that time the car was stated to benefit from a recent complete engine rebuild and superb repaint in Slate Grey by Automobilia in Reims, while the delightfully patinated Havana Brown leather interior was said to be original except for the fitted carpets and hood. A 75bhp model, the car comes complete with rare Karmann hardtop, chromed wheels and optional heater.

Porsche's classic 356 in its most desirable Cabriolet configuration, the car is offered with copies of old French registration documents, bills, and Contrôles Technique. Stored since acquisition, the car will require re-commissioning before returning to the road.

Please note that if this vehicle is to be imported into Switzerland, Swiss Customs charges (Duty, Car Tax and VAT) will apply at roughly 12.5% of the Purchase Price. Included in this is the Swiss Duty which is calculated on the weight of the vehicle and shall be CHF 15 per 100 kg. Also included is Swiss Car Tax at 4% and this is calculated on the total Purchase Price (Hammer + Buyers Premium). Swiss VAT will then be applicable on the aggregated amount of the Hammer Price, Buyer's Premium, Swiss Duty and Swiss Car Tax at a rate of 7.7%.
Please note that customs rates to other countries shall vary. This vehicle will not be available for immediate collection after the sale and will only be released on completion of customs clearance. If you have any questions regarding customs clearance, please contact the Bonhams Motorcar Department or our recommended shippers.