The work of Ferry Porsche, the 356 was based on the Volkswagen designed by his father.

Introduced in 1949, Porsche’s landmark sportscar would remain in production - regularly revised and updated - well into the 911 era, the final examples being built in 1965.

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.

Testing a 356C in 1964, the authoritative American motoring magazine Road & Track enthused over its comfort, quality and excellent performance, concluding, “one would look a long time before finding a sports or GT car that offers more pure driving enjoyment.”

Built in October 1964 and first registered in 1965 (the final year of production), this left-hand drive 356C has the more desirable 95 horsepower ‘SC’ engine.

A California ...