Few sports cars embody the essence of pure, unfiltered driving quite like the Porsche 356 Speedster. Introduced in 1954 at the urging of influential U.S. importer Max Hoffman, the Speedster was Porsche’s answer to the growing demand for a lightweight, affordable sports car tailored to the American market. Stripped of excess, it featured a removable side curtain setup in place of roll-up windows, a low, raked windscreen that could be removed for competition use, and a bare-bones interior with lightweight bucket seats. These characteristics made the Speedster an instant favorite among sports car purists and weekend racers, who valued its nimble handling, reliability, and competitive price point.
While its affordability attracted enthusiasts, it was the Speedster’s undeniable charm and capability that cemented its place in Porsche history. With its minimalist construction and rear-mounted air-cooled flat-four engine, the Speedster was a darling of club racing circuits, favored by amateur racers and professional drivers alike. Gentlemen racers who sought a versatile car for both street and track found the Speedster to be the perfect blend of performance and practicality. Names such as James Dean, John von Neumann, and Bruce Jennings were among the many who piloted these machines in their early careers.
By 1958, the Speedster had reached its final and most refined iteration—the 356 A T2. Benefiting from continuous development, the T2 introduced a revised rear suspension, a more robust transaxle with improved shifting characteristics, and various refinements that enhanced both performance and usability. This final-year Speedster represents the pinnacle of Porsche’s first-generation production sports cars, blending race-proven engineering with timeless styling. However, despite its cult following, 1958 would also mark the Speedster’s swan song. Porsche discontinued the model in favor of the more comfort-oriented Convertible D, making the final-year T2 one of the most desirable and sought-after examples today.
Completed in January 1958 at Porsche’s Zuffenhausen works, this 356 A T2 Speedster, chassis no. 84958, stands as a superb example of this final evolution. Originally finished in elegant Ivory over a black interior, it was uniquely specified with coupe seats—an uncommon factory departure from the Speedster’s traditional lightweight buckets. This subtle modification provided enhanced comfort while preserving the Speedster’s unmistakable character.
Discovered in 1988, this Speedster was acquired by a passionate Porsche collector with a deep appreciation for both the model’s aesthetics and dynamic prowess. Under his stewardship, the car underwent a comprehensive, bare-metal restoration. It was refinished in a striking red, and several thoughtful enhancements were made to improve performance and drivability, including the installation of a 1,720cc Porsche 912-derived engine, an upgraded transaxle, and improved braking components.
This highly capable Speedster proved to be a superb long-distance touring companion, participating in numerous vintage motoring events, including the prestigious California Mille and Japan’s renowned Nippon Rally. Throughout this extended ownership, the car remained well-maintained and mechanically sorted, ensuring it remained a road-ready icon. As the owner’s tastes evolved, the Speedster was once again refinished—this time in black—before ultimately being acquired by its next caretaker.
Today, this Speedster is accompanied by a Porsche Certificate of Authenticity, restoration photos showcasing its sound bare-metal foundation, and a trove of maintenance records documenting its meticulous care. The sale includes a black Speedster top, tonneau cover, and comprehensive documentation attesting to its provenance. A set of wider wheels and tires, ideal for more spirited driving, will accompany the car in the sale. Lastly, the Speedster has been freshly fitted with new Vredestein tires, priming it for the open road once more.
Sporting a high-performance 912 engine, factory-fitted coupe seats, and stylish bumper overriders, this 356 A T2 Speedster masterfully blends historical significance with enhanced drivability. A true road-ready icon, it promises to be an exhilarating rally companion while retaining the timeless allure that has made the Speedster one of Porsche’s most beloved models. Whether destined for spirited weekend drives, shows, or vintage rallies, this Porsche represents an exceptional opportunity for the collector or enthusiast seeking a beautifully prepared and well-documented example of one of Stuttgart’s most celebrated creations.
Offers welcome, trades considered.
$ Call for price!
Stock number 7863
For immediate assistance please call us at +1-314-524-6000
