The 1960 Porsche 356B Coupe represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of the Zuffenhausen brand. This specific Reutter-built example carries a rare level of provenance, having remained with its current owner since 1985. Finished in its factory Silver Metallic, the car wears the redesigned T5 body style. It features the higher-set headlights and bumpers that distinguished it from earlier models. While it shows the honest patina of a long-term driver, its mechanical integrity remains a priority. This car serves as a bridge to an era of pure, air-cooled German engineering.
The Evolution of the T5 Body Styling
Porsche introduced the T5 body for 1960 to modernize the aging 356 platform. The design changes included a more upright headlight position and raised bumpers for better protection. This specific car was repainted about 35 years ago to maintain its classic silver luster. It retains the original front trunk lid handle and period-correct chrome overriders. Vented 15-inch steel wheels with Porsche crest hubcaps complete the traditional exterior look. These subtle updates made the 1960 Porsche 356B Coupe a more refined and usable sports car.
Refined Blue Leatherette Interior Appointments
The cabin offers a striking contrast with front bucket seats reupholstered in deep blue leatherette. Interior details include an AM/FM radio paired with Sony speakers for a more modern audio experience. The body-color dashboard provides a seamless transition from the exterior into the driver’s workspace. Classic green-letter VDO gauges sit behind the three-spoke steering wheel to monitor vital engine statistics. An analog clock and lap belts add to the authentic mid-century atmosphere inside. This space reflects the minimalist philosophy that defined early Porsche interior design.
Flat-Four Engine Specs and Performance
Power is delivered by a 1.6-liter flat-four engine equipped with dual Zenith carburetors. This unit was rebuilt around 2010 to ensure the car remains roadworthy and responsive. It produces the unmistakable air-cooled soundtrack that enthusiasts have loved for over seventy years. A four-speed manual transaxle gives the driver full control over the power delivery to the rear wheels. Koni shocks have been installed to enhance the handling characteristics of the classic chassis. While the drum brakes are period-standard, they offer a tactile and engaging braking feel. This mechanical package remains the heart of the 1960 Porsche 356B Coupe experience.
1960 Porsche 356B Coupe Summary
This Porsche 356B is a compelling survivor with an incredible forty-year ownership history. It includes a Porsche Certificate of Authenticity to verify its production details and serial numbers. The car shows some signs of age, including rust along the door edges and underside. However, its long-term care and documented rebuild make it a solid candidate for further preservation. It stands as a testament to the enduring build quality of early Reutter-built coupes. This vehicle is ready for its next long-term steward to continue its storied legacy.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
