Information On The Porsche 356 - 2

...1954:
Hoffman convinces Porsche that they can gain more market share by producing a stripped down version of the 356 for less money specifically designed for the west coast where fair weather and amateur racing go hand in hand. And so the Speedster is born and an instant success with more than 4000 sold in just 5 years.
1955:
The 1600 motor makes it to production. The 1500 GS Carrera motor which is being developed for the race track suddenly finds its way into the 356 line. The A line is introduced which has several small changes to the body style.
1956:
The 10,000th 356 comes off the assembly line and it is celebrated at the factory.
1957:
More improvements saw the T2 prototype with the new transmission. The 644 replaced the 519 with a much better shifter, dual nose mounts, and much better synchros.
1958:
The Carrera engine continued to see improvements that produced higher horsepower. The Convertible came to market replacing the Speedster and it was much taller and luxurious than its predecessor.
1959:
The last Speedster is released and the 1300 engine is also dropped.
1960:
The 356B is given the Super 90 motor. The 90 has a counterweighted crank, Solex P40-II Carburetor, and sodium filled valves.
1961:
The hardtop is introduced and is instantly a hit and is fondly nicknamed the "Notchback". Over 1700 of these cars sold in less than two years.
1962:
Porsche is talking with Reutter about the purchase of the coach maker. The factory launches Christophorus which is a Porsche lifestyle magazine.
1963:
356C is brought to market with the 95 HP SC engine. It has 4 wheel disc brakes, and it is available with an optional 12 volt electric system.
1964:
The 356 production has moved over the 10,000 a year number.
1965
The final Cabriolets come off the assembly line.
After several evolutions the 356 came to be retired in 1965 but today the car still remains sought after and it is common to find them selling for over $175,000. Back in the 1950s you could buy that car new for $4000.
The 356 also made it big in the movies staring in Top Gun, 48 Hrs and Another 48 Hrs. And Janis Joplin has a psychedelically painted 356C. The 356 underwent many changes over the years some mechanical while others cosmetic but what remained consistent was its charm, style, sportiness, and speed. Still today this is a car that gets noticed.
We hope that the article you just read was just what you were looking for. Remember, if you need further assistance, or information, we have this whole site that is dedicated to Porches and Porche models.

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