As the cornerstone of the Porsche legend, the 356 was the product of the fertile mind of Ferdinand "Ferry" Porsche, the son of famed engineer Ferdinand Porsche. A lightweight rear-wheel-drive, rear-engine sports car first built in 1948 in Gmnd, Austria, the 356 was relentlessly developed and improved, and by 1950, production was moved to Zuffenhausen, Germany. The following year, the 356 took its first class win at Le Mans, earning Porsche a formidable reputation that continues today. Popularity grew swiftly on both sides of the Atlantic and by 1955, the definitive 356A debuted, followed by the comprehensively updated 356B in 1959. Nearly 31,000 examples of the 356B were built before production moved to the final 356C series of 1963-65.

Featuring a rare and visually striking color combination of Slate Grey over Red Leatherette, this 1962 Porsche 356B 1600S Sunroof Coupe also represents the first model year for the updated and refined 'T6' body style, this 1962 example was originally sold in California with factory options including chrome wheels, safety belts, a Blaupunkt radio, and a rare electric sliding sunroof. Spending much of its lifetime in California, the car is understood to have been cared for by two owners since 1965, the latter of whom acquired the car in 1995.  Subsequently, a Washington resident joined the owner roster.  

According to known history, this 356B was professionally refinished in its factory original non-metallic color of Slate Grey in 1982.  To many enthusiasts, this exterior is highly sought-after by enthusiasts as it was known to be Steve McQueen's favorite color, selected by him when he ordered his 1976 Turbo Carrera. Even today, the acrylic enamel paint finish remains very well presented. A rear luggage rack is included, and the factory optional outside mirrors have been retained, as well as the original date-coded 15-inch chrome wheels. 

The interior remains highly original with the factory Red Leatherette upholstery covering the seats, door panels, and rear compartment.  The headliner is also said to be original, while the dash pad had been previously replaced along with the carpets using correct German square weave material.  Factory options include two safety belts, a Blaupunkt "Frankfurt" radio with a loudspeaker and antenna, and a rare electric sliding sunroof, an option believed to have been selected for less than 5% of all 356 Coupes produced. All gauges and accessories are in proper working order, including the original clock.

This 356B is powered by its original 1600cc Super flat-four carbureted engine, paired with a numbers-matching 4-speed manual transmission. The engine was fully rebuilt with zero miles since by Einmalig utilizing 912 heads and carburetors restored by 356 Carb Rescue. For the T6 series, the 1600 Super engine received an improved oil cooler, composite steel/aluminum pushrods, and upgraded piston rings running in cast-iron cylinders. The transaxle was fully rebuilt and restored by legend Vik Skirmants of 356 Enterprises. The car includes the original service booklets and service records from new.

The sale of this outstanding Porsche 356B 1600 Super Sunroof Coupe will include a Porsche Certificate of Authenticity, a clean AZ Title and images of drivetrain number stampings. Sporting an exceptionally rare color combination, the top roadgoing mechanical specification, and an ultra-rare electric sunroof, this 1962 Porsche 356B 1600 Super Sunroof Coupe is an ideal choice for any discerning enthusiast looking to add an outstanding and highly equipped classic 356B to their collection. See it for yourself by contacting us for viewing arrangements and full details today.