Uncovering a Classic: The 1957 Porsche 356A Coupe
Let’s take a moment to appreciate this 1957 Porsche 356A coupe, a car that’s been off the radar for over four decades. This beauty was scooped up by the seller around 1992 from a dusty old storage barn, where it was playing hide and seek beneath an avalanche of junk for much of the previous decade. The car underwent a half-hearted disassembly and got stripped of its paint, but life had other plans. Fast forward to the mid-90s, and its components have been gathering dust ever since.
The Project Stall
Currently, the body shell is dressed in a patchy primer coat, and it comes with some interesting bits:
- A replacement 1.6-liter Type 616/36 flat-four engine
- A Type 644 four-speed manual transaxle
- All the wiring that was ripped out
- A disassembled collection of steel wheels
- Parts of the car’s brakes and suspension systems—basically, all those mechanical bits crying out for attention
And don’t think we forgot about the interior; it’s all there too! Seats, door panels, carpeting—you name it, it’s either there or in pieces.
Now the disassembled 356A coupe is making its debut in Maryland, complete with a Porsche Certificate of Authenticity and a clean Pennsylvania title in the seller’s name. Talk about a classic in the making!
More on the Body and Condition
So, what’s the story with the body? The seller claims that the shell and doors were given a chemical dip before they were cloaked in primer, while the hood and engine lid proudly flaunt their blue paint. You’ll also get the glass, window trim, bumpers, lighting elements, reflectors, and a host of other exterior flair that’s all laid out in the gallery below. Here’s a catch: the rear bumper mounting holes have been filled in, so a little TLC might be necessary.
Keep your eyes peeled for corrosion and some not-so-great “previous repair” evidence in the front footwells. Filler has been used to smooth out some dents, and the battery enclosure looks like it’s seen better days. Nothing a true enthusiast can’t handle, right?
A Second Chance
Oh, and did we mention that this little gem is back on the market? That’s right, this is a relist after it was previously sold, only for the winning bidder to pull a disappearing act. This wasn’t because the car had any issues; it seems their participation on this classic vehicle auction site has been nixed.
The Nitty-Gritty of Components
Included in the sale is a disassembled set of steel wheels and all those essential components related to steering, braking, and suspension systems. Yes, folks, everything you need to kick this classic project into gear!
Inside the Coupe
What about the interior? The gallery showcases an array of removed components that come with this package. We’re talking about:
- Gauges
- The steering wheel, looking for a steering column to call home
- Sun visors, because you can’t go out without the essentials
- Window rollers
- Door panels and the black-trimmed carpets
- Seats, looking for a new lease on life
Mechanical Overview
Now, let’s dive under the hood. The 616/36 flat-four engine isn’t the original one that came with the car, but it is paired with a Type 644 four-speed manual transaxle. A couple of important points: the engine, gearbox, and other mechanical components haven’t been refurbished. That means they will need some love. However, the good news is that the seller mentions the engine can be turned over by hand, which is a promising sign.
Authenticity Matters
For those who value authenticity, the Porsche Certificate of Authenticity confirms this coupe made its way out of the factory as a 1600 Coupe sporting a 1.6-liter Type 616/1 flat-four engine. The Certificate doesn’t just stop there; it also details factory colors, optional equipment, and a production finish date from way back in July 1957.
All in all, it’s a project steeped in history, laden with character, and just waiting for an enthusiastic owner to breathe life back into it. Are you that owner? The thrill of restoration awaits!