This rare ‘Pre-A’ 356 Coupe is a stylish example of Porsche’s first production car, benefitting from an extensive five-year restoration. Under the rear engine lid sits a replacement period-correct 1.5-litre air-cooled ‘Type 528’ flat-four, driving the rear wheels via the original four-speed manual transmission, which has been rebuilt. Built in October 1953, this 356 was originally delivered via importer Max Hoffman in New York. According to the seller, Hoffman ordered 142 of these 1500S Coupes in USA Deluxe specification, and it is suggested in 356 forums that as few as 30 to 40 still exist today. The car was re-discovered in Arizona in around 2002, where it had reportedly sat in storage for several decades. During the restoration, the owner worked closely with Reutter Karosserie, which provided copies of the original build sheet and Certificate of Production. In Australia, the owner worked with Glasurit to ensure the period-correct metal flake size and paint colour were used, in order to match Reutter’s records. Interior fabrics were sourced from Reutter-recommended manufacturers in Europe and the USA. For example, the corduroy seat inserts are the correct type and profile used by Reutter in this period. After the restoration was completed in March 2023, the car was sent to Porsche Classic for a mechanical fettle. The odometer shows 70,384 miles, though this is not warranted. As a post-1952 Pre-A, this 356 has the slightly V-shaped single windscreen, as opposed to the earlier split windscreen. The Reutter bodywork is finished in Radium Green Metallic, over a beige leather and corduroy-trimmed interior, featuring a burgundy dashboard and door trims, and a white two-spoke steering wheel with a coloured Porsche crest. It rides on a set of 16-inch steel wheels, finished in grey with chrome hubcaps, which are wrapped in Firestone Deluxe Champion tyres. Equipment includes a driver’s sun visor, a rebuilt Telefunken radio and a reclining passenger seat. Accompanying the vehicle will be its Reutter Karosserie Certificate of Production and build sheet. Please refer to the photo gallery to assess the exterior and interior condition. The most recent Certificate of Roadworthiness was issued on 11 April 2023. The most recent service was completed in December 2023 at an indicated 70,291 miles by Porsche Centre Melbourne. During the seller’s ownership, the carburettors and clutch have been adjusted, and an oil leak has been repaired. This rare ‘Pre-A’ Porsche 356 Coupe is a charismatic example of the marque’s iconic and sought-after classic sports car, which was extensively restored over five years, with great care taken to preserve its original specification. Having covered fewer than 100 miles since being serviced by Porsche Centre Melbourne, it would make a desirable addition to any assembly of Stuttgart’s finest, a stylish companion for spirited weekend drives, or an impressive Concours d’Elegance entrant. The description of this consignment is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. Potential buyers should view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy. Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible vehicles to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, either to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be undetectable even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork during its life. Furthermore, photographs may not reflect the true colour or full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to satisfy themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy. This includes by raising enquiries with the seller in the comments section. For vehicles, unless otherwise stated, potential buyers should also assume that any cherished registration may be retained by the seller. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.