The 356 was the first automobile design bearing the Porsche name from inception and soon after introduction in 1948, it drew wide acclaim for its unique design, efficiency, and race-winning performance. Development was swift and constant throughout production, with the 356B marking a high point when it was launched in 1959. Buyers agreed, with production of the 356B nearing 31,000 examples in total, until the advent of the final development, the 356C, in 1963.

As verified by a copy of the original factory issued Kardex vehicle record, this highly restored authentic 1963 Porsche 356B Coupe bears Chassis No. 125136 and left the Porsche factory on 11 July 1963, equipped with a rare and highly desirable electric sunroof, a Becker radio with loudspeakers, and leather seats with headrests and seatbelts, tinted windshield, chrome wheels, antenna, and white wall tires. Interestingly, while the factory Kardex does list Mitsuwa Motors in Japan as the Porsche's first owner, the car is documented as actually having been delivered new to the United States via Hoffmann, who sold the car directly to Mitsuwa. A reasonable speculation is that the car was ordered by an American GI stationed in Japan, hence the Porsche's left-hand drive configuration.

According to known history, this highly optioned 356B Sunroof Coupe was first purchased by William Silano and remained under his ownership for more than 50 years, garaged in the Hamptons at the Silano family summer residence. In 2014, was sold from the Silano estate to a Porsche enthusiast in California, where it was sparingly used for local outings and Cars & Coffee events. The current owner, a brand enthusiast with a large collection of Porsches endeavoured on a 2,000+ hour restoration with authenticity in mind.

Highly original prior to restoration this Porsche 356B was restored over a 4-year timeframe by famed shop White Post at a cost of more than $250,000. During the restoration, a certificate from the original car builder, Reutter, was sourced to ensure all finishes are exactly as the car left the factory aside from the upgraded Nickies pistons and cylinders. The certificate ensures details such as carpet color are as delivered. Other significant hallmarks of originality include the three factory-installed radio suppressors and the original voltage regulator still attached to the engine. The engine was completely rebuilt with power enhanced to Super 90 specifications whilst at White Post; Desirable accessories include a Leitz luggage rack, deluxe horn ring, tinted windshield, tool kit, jack, manual with sunroof supplement and Reutter Certificate .

Thanks to the exceptional restoration this highly equipped 1963 Porsche 356B is offered in excellent operating order, starting easily and running without exhaust smoke. After the restoration the car was road tested over 250 miles by the restorer and then toured the Monterey Area in 2023 for car week where it was shown at the Werks Reunion. Whether your goal is to compete in concours, rally or tour, a black on black sunroof Porsche 356 is one of the icons in one of the rarest color combinations. Be sure to contact us today for a viewing appointment, obtain full details, and add it to your collection of one to many great postwar European sports cars!