1962 Porsche 356B T-6 Super 90 Cabriolet ($195,000)

By Petrolicious Marketplace

June 22, 2017

Photography by Shayan Bokaie

Written by Andrew Golseth

Location: Santa Paula, California
Chassis: 805394
Engine: 1.6-Liter Flat-Four
Transmission: 4-Speed Manual
Mileage: 700 Since Restoration
Color: Heron Gray | Red Leather

PRICE: $195,000

DROPTOP THRILLS IN FERDINAND’S FINEST

As Porsche entered the ’60s, their signature 356 line evolved to the 356B. Updated styling, the legendary flat-four engine out back, and typical German quality made it a worthy successor to the A. And by 1962 the B cars were wearing the latest “T-6” body, complete with a larger trunk aperture, twin engine grilles, and an external fuel filler door.

Naturally, there was demand for an open-air variant, and Porsche obliged these customers with the wonderful Cabriolet. In rare cases, the car was optioned with the Super 90 engine (as in 90 horsepower), an advanced DOHC unit derived from their exploits on track. Expensive, quick, and desirable when new, the Super 90 cars have unsurprisingly become extremely sought-after collectables. Under 1,000 arrived on US shores, and these days finding a sound, matching-numbers example is a rare opportunity.

DESIGN

An unmistakeable jet-age silhouette with an abundance of rounded, windswept forms and modern restraint, the 356 is a masterclass in mid-century aesthetics. This is the postwar period incarnate, radiating a palpable sense of optimism and avant-garde thought in each and every elegant design element.

Erwin Komenda and Dr. Porsche himself collaborated on the 356, and by the launch of the B, the car was already an established success. Small, carefully-considered changes like an integrated, body-color windshield surround on the Cabriolet appear during this period, further refining the signature Porsche look. Universally-acclaimed and living on via the gradual evolution of the later 911, the 356 has cemented its legacy as the signature German sports car.

THE CAR

As a matching-numbers example presented in its stunning original color scheme of Heron Gray over red, this ’62 Super 90 Cabriolet is a wonderful example of the 356B. Restored by specialists in Northern California, it received new floors, longitudinals, and a battery box before a comprehensive, high-quality repaint. The vibrant red leather interior features correct stitching and fabulous rebuilt instruments by Palo Alto Speedometer, all under a fresh top and sitting on a restored frame.

Thanks to a full engine and transmission rebuild, this Super 90’s drivetrain is ready for many more years of spirited, top-down motoring, and retains its unique performance parts and upgrades. Documented with an official Porsche Certificate of Authenticity, it is an investment-grade example with wide appeal.

EXTERIOR

Body – Comprehensively restored, with significant attention paid to panel gaps and general fit and finish, this Porsche is straight, solid, and ready to compete on the concours lawn.

Paint – The 356B is finished in stunning, original-spec Heron Gray paint throughout, including an equally-impressive underside.

Trim and Glass – Finished to a high level, intact, and looking great post restoration. Also includes a rare and desirable Leitz luggage rack at the rear.

Wheels – Vented chrome wheels are in flawless condition, wearing fresh tires.

Convertible Top – Brand new canvas top featuring correct insulation, installed on a restored frame.

INTERIOR

Steering Wheel – The correct, three-spoke wheel is a glorious example of Porsche design and is in excellent condition.

Dashboard & Instrumentation – Rebuilt by Palo Alto Speedometer, the gauges are clear and function extremely well. A correct radio blanking plate, red-upholstered dash top, and more of that wonderful Heron paint complement them.

Seats, Trim, & Carpet – Gorgeous, restored seats complete with headrests, fresh gray square-weave carpets, and tidy door cards complete this exquisite cabin.

MECHANICAL

Engine – The original flat-four was professionally rebuilt with its correct aluminum pistons and liners, and is producing excellent power and that unmistakeable Porsche air-cooled sound.

Original Motor: Yes
Engine Number: 805394
The Drive: Eager to rev and with plenty of shove for such a light car, the Super 90 lives up to its illustrious name.

Transmission – The original four-speed manual transmission was rebuilt along with the engine.

Original Transmission: Yes
Gearbox Number: 63844
The Drive: Smooth and precise, with a tall, elegant lever, the 741/2A transmission is a willing companion on a spirited drive.

ORIGINALITY

Despite undergoing a complete restoration, this Super 90 Cabriolet has stayed true to its history and presents in better-than-new condition. Most importantly, the original, matching-numbers engine is intact, an important consideration when evaluating a Super 90. Care has been taken throughout the car to present it in a factory-fresh spec, without disregarding its past. In many ways this is the ultimate type of restoration: sympathetic yet striking.

DOCUMENTATION

The car comes with its Porsche Certificate of Authenticity.

OUR THOUGHTS

Overlooked (but not for long) – While A and C variants of the 356 have long been collector standbys, the B is only now beginning to rightfully assume its place in the hierarchy. As a Super 90 Cabriolet, this one may just be the best Porsche 356B investment of them all.

Serious Fun-Factor – With an exciting engine out back and no roof above, this car is the ultimate companion on a sunny day. Enjoy rallies, shows, and the backroads with all the sights, sounds, and smells of the vintage Porsche experience.

Great Gray Heron – A stunning color named after a lovely bird brings a bit of whimsy to this serious bit of German machinery.