1965 Porsche 356C Coupe: One-Owner California Original

1965 Porsche 356C Coupe: One-Owner California Original

This 1965 Porsche 356C Coupe presents a rare opportunity to own a single-owner example of one of Porsche’s most beloved models. Ordered new through Jack McAfee Motors of Burbank, California, this car was delivered via the European Delivery program and has been lovingly cared for ever since. Registered exclusively in California, this 356C comes with comprehensive documentation, including its Porsche Certificate of Authenticity, original purchase order, and detailed service records.

Design and Features
Finished in Dolphin Gray, this Karmann-built coupe retains its period charm with body-color bumpers, twin engine grilles, and a clean, timeless silhouette. The car’s interior is upholstered in black leatherette, complemented by a body-color painted dashboard and refined appointments like a quartz-converted analog clock, a Blaupunkt AM/FM radio, and a cabin heater.

Distinct features include:

  • 15″ Lemmerz steel wheels with Michelin XZX tires.
  • Factory-equipped disc brakes on all four corners.
  • Thoughtful touches like a windshield washer system and underside front tow ring.

 

Performance and Mechanical Excellence
Powered by a 1.6-liter flat-four engine paired with a four-speed manual transaxle, this 356C delivers 88 horsepower and 90 lb-ft of torque, offering a pure driving experience. The engine, rebuilt in 2000 by Willhoit Auto Restoration of Long Beach, California, received additional attention in October 2024. Recent work included:

  • Rebuilding Zenith carburetors.
  • Replacing air and fuel filters, spark plugs, and the distributor cap and rotor.

 

History and Provenance
This 356C comes with a treasure trove of original items, including the initial purchase order showing its $3,896.65 price tag, service records, and a tool kit. Its clean California title and Porsche Certificate of Authenticity further underscore its pedigree.

While the car has undergone a repaint, its overall originality is preserved. Some corrosion is noted on the underside of the doors, and minor engine oil leaks are reported, but its excellent maintenance history highlights its care over the decades.

Specifications

  • Engine: 1.6L flat-four (616/15)
  • Transmission: 4-speed manual transaxle
  • Exterior Color: Dolphin Gray
  • Interior Color: Black leatherette
  • Mileage: 55k miles (odometer rolled over once)

 

Why This 356C Stands Out

  • Single-owner history, a rare find in the collector market.
  • Iconic 356 design paired with mechanical upgrades for reliability.
  • Comprehensive documentation, including original sales documents and service history.

This 1965 Porsche 356C Coupe is a classic car enthusiast’s dream, combining elegance, originality, and decades of loving stewardship. A true piece of Porsche history, ready for its next chapter.

Source: bringatrailer.com
This article was crafted with assistance from Chatgpt

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