CLIENT RESTORATION UPDATE
Last issue we introduced you to one of our client restorations in progress, and will share some updates on the progress of this classic Porsche! We had orignially purchased this 356 Pre A Speedster as a “barn find” that had been sitting for many years in non-operational condition. It is a numbers-matching example that maintained its original engine lid, hood, and doors - also numbers-matching. The car had been previoulsy damaged in the front as well as the rear and do not know if this happened during the car’s racing life, or from regular highway use. Regardless, because it is such a historic and valuable car, we thought a restoration was worth it, and offered the car as a great restoration candidate for collectors. The Porsche and a restoration was then purchased by one of our longtime clients, and our team started the journey of restoring the Porsche back to life...
This special 1955 Porsche 356 Pre-A Speedster named “Speedy”, is a very special build for one of our longtime collector clients. We built him a car some years ago – a modified Jaguar XK-120 that he and his wife have shown at numerous events and have greatly enjoyed. They were ready for a new classic, but a change of pace with a different, but just as iconic marque; they noticed the unrestored 356 A while on a visit to Classic Showcase and chose it to be their next restored classic. The Porsche’s color will be Dark Grey with a Red interior and a Black top, a classic color combination that is sure to turn heads and impress those who gaze upon the 356 Pre-A...
This core car is not just any Porsche, but a numbers-matching Pre-A Speedster that includes the original engine and drive axle; but to meet some of the client’s desires, our team decided to put in a pre-built 911 engine for increased power and performance, along with an improved transaxle. The engine also features Weber carbs and a Sport Exhaust, among other upgrades including special-ordered wheels from Germany with improved disc brakes.
All of the instruments have been restored, a new wire loom is being installed, and we have converted the car from 6 volts to 12v to make the 356 Pre-A more dependable. Long term, the owner plans to rally and campaign the Porsche, and our team is now working diligently so the owner may show his car at the upcoming Quail event in Monterey, CA this August! Once completed, this example is sure to please wherever it may travel, so stay tuned to our Summer newsletter for an update on this special Porsche restoration!