One of the attractions of motorsport is that there are categories that suit almost every taste and budget. This 1965 Porsche 356C demonstrates that, with a previous owner modifying it for vintage competition. It presents well and is a turnkey proposition. Its rust issues appear to be relatively minor, making it a prime candidate for a DIY restoration. The seller has listed this sweet little Porsche here on eBay in Falls Church, Virginia. Bidding sits at $10,100, which is below the reserve.
Porsche released the 356 as its first production model in 1948. The company updated its basic design several times before production ended in 1966 (although those cars were still considered 1965 models). Its replacement, the 911, hit the market in 1964, but the 356’s popularity ensured it remained on sale well beyond its envisaged end date. The final version, the 356C, arrived on showroom floors in 1964, representing a last hurrah for the badge. It brought a few useful upgrades, including four-wheel disc brakes for improved stopping power. This Signal Red 1965 example has a competition history, and the inside of the trunk lid retains the magnetic racing numbers it would have worn on the track. It makes a positive first impression, with sparkling paint and no significant dings or dents. There is rust for potential buyers to consider, although it isn’t as bad as it could be. It appears to be confined to the exterior panels, with bubbles rather than gaping holes. The buyer could address the problems at their leisure, but as is often the case, immediate action would prevent what is a relatively small problem from becoming a big one. The Porsche’s underside is rock-solid, and the seller is happy to raise the car on a lift during any in-person inspection to demonstrate this. The trim is in good condition, and the glass is clear.
It is “business as usual” with the 356C when we focus on the drivetrain. Porsche was a master of rear-engine architecture, with this car featuring an air-cooled 1,582cc flat-four that would have sent 87hp to the road via a four-speed manual transaxle when the vehicle was shiny and new. The power figure sounds modest, but with the motor only required to move a car with a curb weight of approximately 2,040 lbs, the 356C was a sprightly performer that could comfortably top 100mph in standard form. One of the attractions of the flat-four is that it is incredibly easy to extract extra horsepower without spending a fortune, and with the car weighing so little, even a small gain can make a significant difference to performance. This Porsche benefits from twin Solex carburetors and an improved exhaust, which will undoubtedly help its cause. The seller describes it as a turnkey proposition, a claim supported by this YouTube video. It shows this German classic running and driving, and I can’t spot any issues causing concern.
The interior could be one of this Porsche’s highlights. The seller confirms that it received new seatcovers and carpet in the correct materials and colors, helping it to present extremely well. The painted surfaces are crisp and clean, and the wheel looks perfect. It retains its factory Blaupunkt AM/FM radio, but has received racing harnesses and additional gauges reflecting its competition history. The installer didn’t cut any holes when fitting those items, so reversal would be straightforward if the winning bidder prefers a more “stock” look.
I have never been a huge fan of Porsches. The marque doesn’t ignite the passion that is crucial for any classic enthusiast, although I respect the performance the company can squeeze from cars with relatively modest engines. This 1965 Porsche 356C demonstrates that ability and would be a rewarding track-day proposition. Alternatively, the winning bidder could address its rust issues and confine their motoring activities to the open road. It has generated plenty of interest since hitting the market, and while we can only speculate about the seller’s reserve, I won’t be surprised if it finds a new home when the hammer falls.
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