• One of only 394 Cabriolets built for 1953 • Rare 1500 Super version • Matching numbers engine and chassis • Professionally restored some time ago • US title with EU taxes paid The work of Ferry Porsche, the 356 was based on the Volkswagen designed by his father.

Like the immortal 'Beetle', the 356 employed a platform-type chassis with rear-mounted air-cooled engine and torsion bar all-independent suspension, yet somehow contrived to offer level of performance that belied the basic layout's humble origins.

Constant development saw the 356's engine progressively enlarged, with 1.3-litre and 1.5-litre units first becoming available in 1951.

In 1952, a Porsche synchromesh gearbox was adopted and the original split windscreen replaced by a one-piece; the latter was still V-shaped, gaining the sobriquet Knickscheibe (bent window) as a result.

1955 marked the arrival of the revised 356A, the newcomer being readily distinguished by its curved windscreen and 15" - down from 16" - wheels.
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