This 1955 Porsche 356 1500 Continental Cabriolet (that’s a mouthful) is one of the rarest 356 models and also one of the prettiest (in my opinion). That spectacular bent windshield is the tell-tale sign that this is a 356 that stands apart from the rest, and as you can tell by the photos, it’s been used like any other driver-quality sports car despite the absurd levels of rarity. Not surprisingly, it isn’t cheap, listed here on Facebook Marketplace for $200,000.
Facebook Marketplace is an odd place to list a car like this, but it is helpful for generating lots of eyeballs fairly quickly. The production numbers are believed to be safely under 300 total units for this early 356, which had other notable design cues aside from the windshield. You can see the beehive-style taillights here, and although they’re not shown on the car, the Continental is often see in restored form with whitewall tires and a distinctive set of hubcaps.
Although I can’t tell for sure, I believe this 356 has the Telefunken radio, another hallmark of the earliest models. The “Continental” name was the brainchild of none other than Max Hoffman, who felt that the 356 nomenclature wasn’t distinctive enough. If only he could see what our modern naming conventions have become! He’d throw a fit. Regardless, Ford did throw a fit, claiming that the Continental nameplate hit a little too close to home. Hence, the name only being used for one year.
The seller claims that this Continental roadster still runs and drives, and the photos seem to suggest that this Porsche was used as a driver for many years, getting the attention it needed to stay on the roads but not necessarily in pristine condition. I love cars like this, as they are just loaded with character. The listing mentions that the 356 will come with its original engine and Porsche certificate of authenticity. What a find!
My first Porsche was a ’57 Cabriolet that needed restoring, which I did. Great car and lots of fun. Only problem I see with this one is the VW engine in the back. Knowing the condition of the original engine is vital for the amount asked for the car.
Not a roadster, a cabriolet. (roll-up windows are an easy way to tell) Bought a much nicer ’53 1500 normal for $1,100 in 1979. Traded it for a 1965 911. Both worth crazy money now.
The 356 roadsters started with the ’59 Convertible D and when the bodies were changed the ’60s through ’62s were called Roadsters. Picture is a ’59 Convertible D race car but the body isn’t modified. The ’60s through the ’65s all had the body changes.
I hope they have the missing tin for the engine bay.
Being rare does not mean it is not also frumpy. I would be afraid to drive this as people on the street would point and laugh.
Looks like it has a VW motor in the back, with pieces missing. I had a ’56, which was all original. Wish I still had it. Also had a ’67 912, all original. If I was going to spend big bucks on buying an old Porsche, I’d want all the original factory parts, particularly the motor. What else is missing or changed? Good luck getting $200K for it.
$200,000 ask, for a beat Porsche. Step right up, Porsche fanatics. Your dream car awaits. Just don’t take on the kid with the Kia Forte, at the stoplight.
But which would you rather drive? I’d take this over a Kia any day!
You either get it or you don’t. The car will bring the money. In 60 years the Kia Forte you mentioned won’t even be mentioned.
Definitely a later era single port VW engine and missing the engine tin important for cooling.
$200,000? Barnum was right.
Well if you’re still living in an 1890s economy that would be true.
It says right in the article that the original engine is INCLUDED. So comments commenting on one errant comment as usual. Literacy used to be valued among humanity, in the analog before Internet ADULT WORLD.
My parents went on their honeymoon in my dad’s 356 in 1959. This could be the same car. If I had the coins I’d make an offer. But if I had the coins I wouldn’t have to haggle much. If you can invest an additional $120k after purchase, these more scarce models fetch $400k+ when well done. But you’re not selling it. Because you’ll grow attached to it. Dad never got over trading his in for a Ford wagon and MG Magnette. Kids and all. Anyone remember WC Fields? He wasn’t that bitter. But my advice to the wives: Let your hubby keep his prized toys. Oh wait: Everything today is computerized and plastic. SELL SELL SELL!!!
Well 200k, for a vw in different skin. I belive I’ll have to pass on this one.