1955 Porsche Pre-A Speedster

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Description

Originally discovered as a true barn find, this 1955 Porsche 356 Pre-A Speedster has been transformed through a meticulous, no-expense-spared rotisserie restoration that blends period-correct authenticity with carefully chosen “Outlaw” themed upgrades. From its humble beginnings to its current show-quality condition, this Speedster is the result of years of precise craftsmanship, extensive research, and a respect for the car’s legacy. The restoration process included disassembly down to bare metal, with every system, component, was either restored, rebuilt, replaced, or custom-built to meet our collector’s vision.

Commissioned by a long-time collector client of ours who envisioned a respectful yet elevated take on the iconic Pre-A Speedster, his goal was clear: maintain the original soul of the car—retaining its numbers-matching engine and transaxle—while enhancing performance, comfort, and reliability in a tasteful and fully reversible way. Many original parts were painstakingly sourced directly from Germany, demonstrating our team’s commitment to getting even the smallest details correct. From authentic interior materials to period-appropriate trim and hardware, no corner was cut with this special build. The collector named the car Speedy, and since its completion, it has been shown at top-tier events such as The Quail and La Jolla Concours d’Elegance. With just 500 test miles since restoration, it is fully sorted and ready for its next chapter!

Currently configured as a performance outlaw, the car features a 912 engine that was professionally rebuilt to a 1720cc by Porsche specialists and set up for daily driving and autocross. It also features Weber carburetors, sport exhaust, and a Porsche 356C transaxle — offering a significant improvement in drivability while maintaining early Porsche character. Importantly, the original numbers-matching 1500cc engine and original transaxle are included with the Speedster, providing the next owner the rare opportunity to enjoy both enhanced performance and historical provenance.

The Speedster underwent a bare-metal rotisserie restoration, fully documented with photos and video. Every element of the build was either restored or hand-crafted using correct materials, with no detail overlooked.

Mechanical:

• 912 engine rebuilt to a 1720cc with Weber carburetors and sport exhaust, paired with a Porsche 356C transaxle (installed)
• Original numbers-matching 1500cc engine and original transaxle (included with the Speedster)
• Upgraded braking system
• Full conversion from 6V to 12V for improved performance and reliability
• Restored original gas tank with epoxy sealing

Body & Exterior:

• Rotisserie-restored to bare metal, then refinished in Metallic Grey
• Fitted fog lights
• German Rudge wheels with knockoffs, painted in body color

Upholstery & Interior:

• Red leather interior by our master trimmer using authentic Porsche materials
• Custom hand-fitted carpet, door panels, cocoa mats, and convertible top
• Restored original top bows
• Custom tonneau cover to protect the cockpit
• Restored original instruments: newly silk-screened dials, rebuilt internals, replated cases, new seals and glass, re-chromed bezels
• Functional turn signal assembly with restored indicator light function
• Original removable side windows for the doors

Additional Items:

• Porsche Certificate of Authenticity (COA)
• Owner’s manual
• Jack and battery tender
• Comprehensive pictorial video of the restoration

This is a rare opportunity for the serious Porsche collector, to own the best of both worlds—a show-level, Pre-A Speedster with refined outlaw performance, and timeless style!

Videos

History

Mention the term "Speedster" to any automotive enthusiast today and a single name springs instantly to mind: Porsche's little open-top 356. Porsche's first American importer, Max Hoffman, had only the luxuriously-finished 356 coupe and cabriolet to sell, which were much more costly than the lower-priced MGs, Austin-Healeys and Jaguars that had caught the fancy of a growing US market. Hoffman urged Porsche to create a more spartan model to better compete with the British imports. The Speedster would offer a one-piece removable windshield, easily-detachable fabric top, side curtains in place of roll-up windows, and thinly-upholstered, ventilated shell seats. Hoffman's prediction was right on target; it was an immediate success, and soon the lightweight Speedster began to establish its prowess on tracks across the country, helping establish Stuttgart as a leading source of innovative engineering and impeccable construction quality.

Authenticity