1957 Porsche 356 Speedster

The Speedster was first introduced in the mid-1950s, at a time when Porsche was still a relatively small, up-and-coming automaker. The company was looking for a way to break into the US market, and the 356 Speedster was their answer.

With its low, aerodynamic profile, and lightweight construction, the Speedster was an instant hit with American drivers that included the likes of James Dean, all of whom were drawn to its combination of speed, style, and handling. 3,676 Speedsters were built in total. With this little roadster being one of the 591 built in 1957.

The car we have here has led an intriguing life. The little speedster was delivered new to Germany in 1957, before being exported to America for a brief interlude, finally coming to Australian shores in the 1970’s.

Whilst in Australia it has had ownership under two well-known Porsche collectors, the most recently of whom, undertook a sympathetic restorations with an amazing backstory.

Looking for some further history of the vehicle, searching for the chassis number the current owner came across a sales listing in America. After calling the number on the advert that amazingly still connected, it was answered by to the son of the one the previous owners incidentally now a Porsche air cooled restorer - Pete’s Custom Coachbuild, Ohio.

After some exchanges of photos, one of which was with the now restorer sitting in the car as a baby, it was agreed upon that the car would be sent over to Ohio to undergo the restoration.

The restoration is what really sets this Porsche 356 Speedster apart. The attention to detail that has gone into it is second to none. Now finished in original Meissen Blue, from the moment you sit behind the wheel and sink into the classic bucket seats, now trimmed in stunning red leather, you're enveloped by a sense of quality and craftsmanship that's simply unmatched.

The whole drivetrain has been rebuilt by Aircooled Auto, with the original flat-four engine, and the tight 4 speed manual as engaging as ever. The suspension is firm and responsive, and with the lightweight construction, you can fling the Speedster through corners with ease, feeling the wind in your hair as you soak up the sights and sounds of the road.

The Porsche 356 Speedster is a true masterpiece of automotive design. It's a car that's just as thrilling to drive today as it was nearly 70 years ago, and its timeless style make it a true icon of the automotive world.