Purchasing first 356

[Doug McDonnell]

+1 Dan I have let Fred know of a couple of good cars I know of for sale by 356ers.

[Paul Lima]

It is far from rare to find a 356 with a different engine than its original. Collectors value the "numbers matching" aspect, but if you really mean for it to be a driver, I wouldn't stress over the engine number. It could, however, be helpful in getting a fair price reduction... BTW, I'm in Carson City and we have a very active 356 club in the area. Lots of help available to you should you want it.

[Paul Lima]

One further opinion: by far the most important attribute for me would be a (relatively) rust-free car that is straight. Again, for a good driver, body and suspension integrity is most important, and most expensive to fix if not.

[Harry Fahnestock]

Friends!
Due to your advice and comments I have decided to walk away from subject car. Just too many question marks, some of which would never be answered. I am looking at two more vehicles so we shall see how that part of the journey goes. Thank you all for your timely and knowledgeable information. You may well hear more from me as I search for my 356! Hopefully I can meet you one day. Safe travels, Harry

[Edwin Ek]

Harry, one thing to consider as you continue searching: C cars have disk brakes. All previous models have drum brakes (there's one tiny exception). The brakes are the major difference between T-6 B cars and C cars. Most, including Porsche itself of course, consider them a worthwhile improvement.

Prices generally reflect this: C cars are slightly more expensive than comparable B's. You as a buyer get to decide if you care about the improvement and are willing to pay a little more.

[William Block]

#21279 last known:
'63/'63 356B-T6 Karmann coupe #212793
616/? P*
741/?
ruby red/red/carpet
Sonderausführung:
Built del
?, CA 775-720-8356
May 03, driver, for sale (Ebay 2416278956/NET)

Perhaps you could call the number.
Bill Block
Once reviews columnist and now unofficial, self-appointed registrar trying to keep the faith.
Blocks Books www.BLOCKS-BOOKS.COM
7295 Coldspring Ln. West Bloomfield, MI 48322 USA
248/672-2637 blocklab@gmail.com
1953/1952 1500N coupe #11994
1957 Super tractor #133/7622
1959/1958 1600N sunroof coupe #106072
1965/1964 356C Porsche cabriolet #161564
1966/1965 911 coupe #303269
1970 914/6 2.8 modified #9140432388
1998/1998 Silk, aka the fabulous Freda’s Boxter WPOCA2983WS621230

[Vic Skirmants]

The disc brakes on the C model were not the only improvement. The cylinder heads were much better, than even the S-90. The transmissions gained a 12-bolt ring gear by August 1963.

[Doug McDonnell]

You mean the S85 don't you Vic? :>)

[Vic Skirmants]

I was being diplomatic, but that's pretty true. Most S-90 heads are ported poorly, with a bad step inside the port; critical area on our engines for good flow.

[Wes Bender]

I can hear Harry spinning as you guys speak........

[Harry Fahnestock]

I'm trying to understand and keep up with you guys but I am part farmer so it takes me a little longer!

[Vic Skirmants]

I'm trying to understand and keep up with you guys but I am part farmer so it takes me a little longer!

Sorry; we get carried away with inside info.

[Jim Liberty]

Buy the seller, not the car. ……………….Jim.