This 1965 Porsche 356 is in an interesting spot project-wise, as it seems like a whole heck of a lot of money and time was spent to bring it to this point before progress stopped. The list of improvements is lengthy and the next owner will have a solid starting point for a project. There are some bits missing but the good news is you’re starting with a rust-free body and floorpans with a rebuilt engine and some other upgrades along the way. Find it here on eBay with bids to $36,200 and no reserve.

We don’t get any insights into why this 356 is being sold as a project that’s not quite finished, but it seems likely there was a death in the family or other circumstances that led to the owner not being able to complete it. Frankly, given the value of a restored 356, anyone who has the ability to finish likely would have pushed through given the potential ROI at the end of the project. The listing notes that the 356 is a “…six volt European car,” and that the rebuilt engine comes with a 1750 big bore kit. Other details include that the Solex carburetors need rebuilding and that the speedometer reads out in kilometers, further confirming this is a European-market example.

Inside, there is some work yet to be done. The interior is present but not installed, and it looks like someone was in the middle of a soundproofing job when the work stopped. The seller notes that most of the parts needed to finish the interior are included, such as the original carpet kit, bucket seats (that will need new upholstery), seat rails, a tachometer (also needs to be repaired), the rear view mirror, and quarter glass. The big items that are missing are fairly important to the long-term enjoyment of the 356, as the front and rear windshields and both sides and rear glass are all missing. I’m sure there’s a resource for this, but good, vintage glass is rarely affordable.

The fact that this is a European-market 356 is interesting; I don’t recall seeing imported examples of Porsche’s first sports car all that frequently. The 911 regularly appears as a gray market example, but not the 356. With that in mind, I’d love to see this car go back to its roots, as the Minilite wheels are driving me bonkers. Put it back on steel wheels and hubcaps, ASAP! The seller notes the original bumpers and overriders are included, along with various trim bits to finish off the exterior. With a rust-free structure and a running, rebuilt engine featuring some nice upgrades, this 356 is already well worth its bid price and then some.