The 1962 Porsche 356 B 1600 ‘Twin-Grille’ Roadster by D’Ieteren represents a rare and remarkable piece of automotive history, and is one of the most coveted derivatives of the Porsche 356 series. With fewer than 250 of these final Roadsters produced, this example stands out not only for its rarity but also for its extraordinary originality, believed to be entirely unrestored with its original finishes still intact.
A Unique Legacy: The Twin-Grille Roadster
The Porsche 356 Speedster was a celebrated model, renowned for its stripped-down racing ethos. In 1958, it was succeeded by the 356 Convertible D, offering a more refined driving experience while retaining the Speedster’s spirited feel. Porsche continued to evolve its open-air models, introducing the 356 B Roadster, and later refining it further with the T-6 body type in 1962. To manage production, Porsche shifted to Belgian coachbuilder D’Ieteren, who crafted the final Twin-Grille Roadsters, distinguishable by their squared hood, twin ventilation grilles on the engine lid, and right front fender fuel filler.
This specific Roadster, chassis 89848, is one of the last ever produced, making it a true collector’s piece. Its timeless design, coupled with its storied history, places it among the most revered models of the Porsche 356 lineage.
A Journey Through Time
Delivered new via Autohaus Krauss Porsche in Nürnberg, Germany, this Roadster was shipped in its original livery of Oslo Blue over gray leatherette on March 29, 1962. Shortly after, it made its way to Los Angeles, where it was purchased by Jack Schultz. Over the years, it passed through the hands of several discerning owners, including a Porsche enthusiast in Florida and a Los Angeles real estate mogul who registered the car to his Oregon vacation home in the mid-1970s.
The car’s most significant chapter began in 1978 when it was acquired by Porsche collector Rudi Klein for $18,500. Despite owning the vehicle for decades, Klein rarely drove it, instead choosing to preserve it as a pristine example of Porsche’s craftsmanship. The car spent much of its time in storage, lending its incredible originality to restoration experts at Aase Brothers in Fullerton, California, who used it as a reference to recreate the original finishes of this iconic model.
Preserved in Unmatched Condition
This 1962 Porsche 356 B 1600 Twin-Grille Roadster has fewer than 600 miles on its odometer at cataloguing time, reinforcing its status as a true time capsule. The car remains factory-equipped with its matching-numbers engine and gearbox, as documented by its Kardex build record. Finished in its original Oslo Blue, it retains all the authenticity and charm of its early years, making it an exceptional example of Porsche’s revered heritage.
A Collector’s Dream
Offered without reserve by RM Sotheby’s at The Junkyard: The Rudi Klein Collection, this 1962 Porsche 356 B 1600 ‘Twin-Grille’ Roadster is estimated to sell for between $350,000 and $550,000 USD. With its unparalleled originality and rich history, this Twin-Grille Roadster stands as a testament to Porsche’s enduring legacy and offers an incredible opportunity for a passionate collector to become its next caretaker.
For enthusiasts of Porsche’s golden era, this Twin-Grille Roadster is a rare gem—a marvel of preservation that will continue to be celebrated for generations to come.
Source: rmsothebys.com
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