PORSCHE 356 B 1600 CABRIOLET REUTTER – 1963
Technical Specifications
Make: Porsche
Model: 356 B 1600 Cabriolet Reutter – 60 HP
Year of Registration: 1963
Year of Production: 1962
Chassis Number: 156656
Engine Number: P608439 – Type 616/1
Displacement: 1,582 cc
Power Output: 60 HP
Odometer: 15,770 km
Certification: ASI Historic Vehicle Certification
Interior: Black Leather
Exterior Color: Ruby Red
Soft Top: Black Sonnenland
Description
Presented in one of the most elegant and desirable period color combinations, this beautiful Porsche 356 B 1600 Cabriolet Reutter is an authentic example of Porsche’s golden era and one of the finest expressions of the marque’s early production.
Manufactured in 1962 and first registered in 1963, the car remains in excellent overall condition and is regularly driven, demonstrating both its mechanical reliability and the care it has received throughout its life. It is fully operational and ready for immediate use, requiring no mechanical work whatsoever.
The vehicle was imported and registered in Italy in 1996 following a careful restoration. In the same year it was awarded the prestigious ASI (Automotoclub Storico Italiano) Historic Certification, confirming its historical significance and compliance with the original specifications of the model.
Since the restoration was completed, the car has covered just over 15,000 kilometers, preserving an exceptional level of originality, functionality and presentation. It has belonged to its current owner since 2021 and has always undergone the mandatory biennial technical inspections. The current inspection certificate remains valid until September 2027.
The Porsche 356 B Cabriolet Reutter
The Porsche 356 is the model that established the Porsche legend. Introduced in 1948, it was the first production automobile built by the company founded by Ferdinand Porsche and his son Ferry Porsche. Its combination of lightweight construction, reliability and outstanding driving dynamics quickly earned worldwide acclaim and laid the foundations for the future Porsche 911.
Produced between 1959 and 1963, the 356 B introduced several technical and stylistic improvements over earlier versions, including revised bodywork, enhanced suspension geometry and improved everyday usability.
The Cabriolet version built by the renowned coachbuilder Reutter is especially sought after. Reutter was Porsche’s historic partner responsible for manufacturing the bodies of many early 356 models. Today, Reutter-built Cabriolets are regarded among the most elegant and collectible variants of the entire 356 range.
Technical Features
The Porsche 356 B 1600 Cabriolet is powered by the legendary Porsche Type 616/1 engine:
- Air-cooled flat-four boxer engine
- 1,582 cc displacement
- 60 HP output
- Carburetor-fed induction system
- Rear-wheel drive
- Fully synchronized 4-speed manual gearbox
- Lightweight steel body construction
- Independent suspension on all four wheels
- Drum brakes on all four wheels
This technical configuration delivers the pure and engaging driving experience that made the Porsche 356 famous worldwide.
Equipment and Features
- Black leather interior
- Premium black Sonnenland soft top
- Original Porsche instrumentation
- Original-style chrome wheel covers
- Elegant Ruby Red and Black Leather color combination
- ASI Historic Certification
- Technical inspection valid until September 2027
Rarity and Collectability
The Porsche 356 Cabriolet is widely recognized as one of the most important collector cars ever produced by Porsche. Reutter-built Cabriolets are particularly coveted for their elegance, limited surviving numbers and their significant role in Porsche history.
The 356 B also represents one of the final developments of the original 356 project before the introduction of the 356 C and ultimately the legendary Porsche 911.
With its ASI certification, excellent condition, minimal mileage since restoration and proven mechanical reliability, this example represents a rare opportunity for discerning collectors and enthusiasts seeking one of the most iconic classic Porsches ever built.
