1965 Porsche 356 C roadster
YEAR: 1965
VIN NUMBER: 161457
BODY: Cabrio
ENGINE: 1582 cm³
EXTERIOR: doplhin grey
INTERIOR: black leather
MILEAGE: 102.000
TRANSMISSION: manual 4 speed
DESCRIPTION:
Porsche 356 roadster. All numbers matching and fully documented The Porsche 356 was the company’s first production automobile. It was a lightweight and nimble handling rearengine rearwheeldrive 2 door sports car, available in hardtop and convertible configurations.
Design innovations continued during the years of manufacture, contributing to
its motorsports success and popularity, production ended in April of 1965.
We proudly offer this striking and largely original 356C Cabriolet,
factory delivered in the correct Dolphin Grey (6410) over the original
Black Leather that is wears today. A definitive preservation candidate;
according to the Porsche factory Kardex provided by expert Jurgen
Barth and Porsche Certificate of Authencity, 161457 was sold new from
Porsche to Mrs. Mary Bird Young of Sharon, Connecticut; optioned with
Phoenix Tires and open bodywork.
Mary Bird is known as the Mountain Heroine of the 1930’s, in the
summer she climbed mountains and in winter she skied them; conquering
most of the mountain ranges of the world. Featured in the film Ski Girl,
premiering at Radio City Music Hall, Mary was also on the first
international U.S. FIS Ski Team (1935), as well as the 1936 Women’s
Olympic ski Team; always celebrated for alpine skiing and jumping in
her skirt.
The Porsche would remain under Mrs. Young’s ownership until her
passing in 2002, with family care in the years following, and today
presents as quite the remarkable find for the most discerning collector.
The 356 retains original numbered trim, lenses, glass, radio and stamped
(#57) rear decklid. The list continues with details such as original Porsche
crests, date coded wheels (10/64) and more. The cosmetics have seasoned
accordingly showing age as expected, but capable of being enjoyed as it is
or could also be taken to the next level.
The front luggage compartment is complete with luggage liner, spare and
jack assembly, while the engine bay reveals the numbersmatching
powerplant, again preserved with original decals. The underside shows
wear from years of normal use and we note that battery pan/tray was
replaced along with evidence that the car received a front nose clip
several years ago. The gaps are consistent although throughout and the
underside display some of the original undercoating. Period accessories
include vintage luggage, straps and ski set, mounted to an original Leitz
luggage rack. Mechanically the car runs and drives very well thanks to
its recent full service and tune up.
This largely unrestored 356 should garner quite a bit of attention among
enthusiasts. Complete with Original 1965 Certificate of Title and
Importer’s, Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin and a concours correct
tool roll with towel and Mesko air gauge. An excellent preservation class
entry, these Porsches have long been known to provide years of reliable
motoring, and this exceptionally original example is just the candidate
for continued enjoyment.