Carrera Speedster
In 1955, less than a year after the 356 Speedster model was introduced, Porsche built the first example equipped with the competition-derived four-cam Carrera engine. The result was a brilliant dual-purpose sports car, and the Carrera Speedster continued to be improved and refined throughout production.
For 1957, Porsche began to offer a GT option for the 1500 GS Carrera model. Initially, the option referred only to the engine’s state of tune; however, in time the GS/GTs were equipped with competition features such as an extended-range, 80-liter fuel tank and 60 mm racing front brakes with vented backing plates. In GS/GT form, the Carrera Speedster proved so popular that Porsche continued to build them into 1959, even after production of the standard Speedster had ceased.
Technical Specs
- 1,498 CC Type 547/1 Air-Cooled DOHC Flat 4-Cylinder Engine
- Two Solex 40 PII-4 Carburetors
- 110 BHP at 6,200 RPM
- 4-Speed Manual Transaxle
- 4-Wheel Hydraulic Drum Brakes
- 4-Wheel Fully Independent Torsion-Bar Suspension with Shock Absorbers
Chassis 83319
The Carrera Speedster presented here, chassis 83319, is a stunning example of a rare thoroughbred Porsche. According to factory records, 83319 was completed in May 1957, and specified as a GS/GT. Originally finished in White over black vinyl upholstery and equipped with engine no. 90815, the Carrera Speedster was delivered new to official US importer Hoffman Motor Car Company in New York.
While little is known of the car’s early history, it was discovered in the Philadelphia area in the early 1980s by Porsche specialist Richard Koenig. By this time, the Speedster was missing its four-cam engine, but Mr. Koenig recognized tell-tale Carrera features such as the dash-mounted ignition switches and plumbing for auxiliary oil lines. After a deal was struck, Mr. Koenig commenced a comprehensive restoration with the intention of returning the rare Carrera Speedster to its original splendor.
Highlights
- One of Only 151 Carrera Speedsters Built; Fewer than 90 in Ultimate GT Specification
- Delivered New to Hoffman Motor Car Company; Finished in White over Black
- Comprehensively Restored by Porsche Specialists Richard Koenig and Bill Doyle
- Displayed at the 2013 Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance
- Recent Cosmetic Restoration by the Renowned Willhoit Auto Restoration
- Offered with Books, Tools, Literature, Accessories, and Copy of the Porsche Kardex
Restoration
The restoration effort, which spanned three decades, utilized rare OEM and new old stock components whenever possible. According to Mr. Koenig, and as documented in an accompanying restoration photo album, the Speedster was placed on a jig to ensure exact fit and alignment while new battery box, floor pan, and longitudinal sections were fitted. Mr. Koenig also noted that the panel bearing the car’s stamped chassis number had to be replaced to properly repair previous damage; however, the original data tag was preserved. Elsewhere, original hardware, including nuts, bolts, and fasteners, was used throughout, while great attention was paid to preserving the distinctive traces of the original handcrafted build process.
As restoration of the Speedster’s body was carried out, Mr. Koenig sourced an unnumbered type 547/1 engine case and a roller-bearing crankshaft assembly that had been rebuilt by the acclaimed German four-cam specialist Karl Hloch. These vital components were shipped to Bill Doyle’s famed Rennwagen Motor Company for an exacting rebuild to GT specifications. Finally completed in 2012, the Carrera Speedster made its post-restoration debut at the 2013 Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance. The car remained in Mr. Koenig’s ownership until 2013, when it was sold to noted Porsche collector Jörg Ineichen of San Diego.
During Mr. Ineichen’s ownership, the Carrera Speedster suffered a small engine-bay fire resulting from a leaking fuel pump. While the damage was minor and largely superficial in nature, the car was sent to Willhoit Auto Restoration in Long Beach, California, one of the world’s leading 356 specialists. As documented in an album of photographs provided by John Willhoit, the Carrera Speedster underwent a complete cosmetic restoration, carried out to the highest standards. This work included stripping and metal-finishing the body before it was painted and reassembled. A new wiring harness and interior upholstery were also installed, and the mechanical components were removed, tested, and detailed to concours condition, before being refitted.
Now offered on behalf of a noted American Porsche enthusiast, this 1500 GS/GT Carrera Speedster remains in exquisite concours-quality condition in all respects and its presentation is sure to impress the most discerning eye. Significantly, the car’s hood and deck lid are stamped with the last three digits of the chassis number (319) and the transaxle, no. 14658, matches the factory production record and features Carrera-specific BBAA gearing. Consistent with its superb presentation, this Carrera Speedster is offered with a copy of the factory Kardex, tool roll, jack, and handbook set, which includes a 356 A owner’s manual, service book, and supplement for cars equipped with the 1500 Carrera engine.
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