I’ll admit that I’m far from a Porsche expert but I have always been intrigued by everything that is Porsche. As with many, upon hearing mention of that esteemed brand, the first thing that I conjure is an image of the iconic 911 in all of its derivations. Upon the 911’s 1964 introduction, it sucked all of the air out of Stuttgart and its predecessor, the memorable 356, was overshadowed. That being the case, I thought it appropriate to review a final year, 1965 model 356 and recall its qualities. Our subject car, residing in Oakland, California, is available, here on eBay for a current bid of $32,600 with the reserve not yet met.
Being a 1965 model means that this Porsche is technically a 356 C and this example is claimed to be an “SC” meaning a 95 HP, 1.6-liter flat-four-cylinder engine. But wait! There’s more as this 356 has an “NPR Big-Bore Kit” which has ostensibly increased the motor’s displacement to 1.8 liters. There’s no reference as to this car’s driving and running prowess but it is said that the carburetors need to be rebuilt. A standard four-speed transaxle applies power to the rear wheels.
What we have here appears to be a mixed bag. The body has had some of its trim removed and it’s not stated if it’s included in the sale. It would seem that this car was likely stripped for refinishing and then not fully reassembled but that’s just a guess. The seller suggests making contact for “detailed specifics“. The paint on the bonnet looks to be flecked and lifting and there’s some more of that occurring on the roof too. The glass shows as super clean and clear and then you realize that it’s missing and not included. The Minilite wheels are a nice inclusion but they appear to have been rattle canned black – they’ll need help.
Along with no glass, there’s not a lot of an interior either. It’s in a state of disarray with a missing center pod gauge (tachometer?) being one of the glaring detractions. It is said that there is an interior “Dynamat” for sound absorption and I guess that’s what is balled up in the driver’s side footwell. The upholstery is seriously dusty but from what can be seen doesn’t look ripped. It and the steering wheel appear to have been bombarded with typical body shop sanding dust. Note the dashboard, I can’t make that out either, it seems like something that has been fabricated.
The bidding on this 356 is strong! Five bidders have moved it up from a $20K opening, and considering its current $32,600 perch, some of them have probably taken the seller’s suggestion and contacted him for those detailed specifics. I imagine that they now know things about this car that can’t be gleaned from the images or paucity of listing details, right?
Compared to the ’63 B now you’ve got something to work with. The SC engine was the best of the 356 line and transferred into the 912 line in ’66. Still going to be expensive what with all the missing glass etc. but at least you don’t have to start from the ground up like the B.
Seller has good feedback and has sold at least one other Porsche. This car has virtues not the least of which as a platform for a professional restorer wanting to make an Outlaw. Depends on reserve of course but these C cars have gone sky high.
The motor with a big bore kit should be a 1720..I have one on a 912 motor in my 356 and should be good for maybe 110bhp..and those don’t look like Minilites to me. This car is a mixed bag that would need a through inspection before buying IMHO..
The wheels don’t look like Minilites. They look like these but I don’t know what these are. I would like more just like these 15×7 5 on 4.5.
They’re 11#s.
Tried to buy one of these in 1965, but was told only new 912 was available . Got the 912, for $4200. Some outfit called Autoeurope. You sent them the money, they drove the car to Rotterdam for shipping to Port of L.A. Duty was less as a “ used car”.
The engine, being a second cousin to the Beetle, would be easy and fun work for basic maintenance.
Ended at $37,100. Reserve Not Met.