F1
Jim Clark and Jenks’ Porsches: Ultimate two-car garage photoshoot
In this month’s magazine, Motor Sport went to see the garage that two of the most significant Porsches in racing history
Less is more: Why the 1957 Porsche 356A Speedster commands a premium
The idea of a US importer, the stripped-down Speedster was the Porsche 356A to own, says Simon de Burton
Historics Auctioneers
If anyone tries to tell you that less can’t be more, suggest they compare a regular Porsche 356A with a Speedster version. The latter can be worth two or three times as much as the former, despite it being way more spartan.
US Porsche importer Max Hoffman had the idea of creating the Speedster in 1954, partly in a bid to enhance the appeal of the 356 among younger, less-wealthy buyers.
Disc wheels retain correct domed hubcaps
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Steep-raked windscreen is quickly detachable for track use
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With its stripped-down aesthetic and basic weather gear, it was really intended to be a budget 356 – but by combining the A model’s already improved suspension, brakes and structural rigidity with the Speedster’s lighter weight, bucket seats and an easily removable raked windscreen, the car’s potential for the track was not lost on many racing drivers.
It’s thought that 4854 Speedsters were built before the model was replaced by a full convertible in 1958, with the large majority being sent to the US. This car was among them, but was imported into the UK a decade ago – complete with documented history from new.
Centrally positioned rev counter hints at ‘driver’s car’ spec
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Wood-rimmed steering wheel was standard fit
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Subject to a major restoration completed in 2017, it benefits from a full repaint in metallic silver, new trim and a fresh hood and is described as a turnkey example – which, sensibly, lives in a heated, de-humidified garage and doesn’t get used on Britain’s sometimes salt-strewn roads unless the weather is right.
With another £22,000 having been spent within the past four years and that all-important history file, it could be one of the best Speedsters in the country.
Just don’t expect much in the way of luxuries for your money.
Bucket seats – but due to the age, no seatbelts
Historics Auctioneers
1600cc, 60bhp engine is in pristine condition
Historics Auctioneers
1957 Porsche 356A Speedster
On sale with Historics Auctioneers, Ascot, March 7. Estimate: £290,000-£325,000. historics.co.uk
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