Numbers-Matching 1960 Porsche 356B. Fully restored, Black / Red, early T5 body, 1600cc H4 engine, 4-speed manual transmission. Porsche Certificate of Authenticity on file.

The 911 may be the most enduring and most populous model produced by Porsche, this ever-popular model owes itself to the iconic and original Porsche -- the 356. Produced in various forms for nearly twenty years, the 356 was the first production car ever built by Porsche. The original 356 (which resides in the Porsche museum) -- called the 356/01 -- was designed by Ferdinand 'Ferry' Porsche in 1948, and was originally a mid-engined open-top two seater. When the 356 reached production, it had evolved into a rear-engined sports coupe or roadster that was powered by an air-cooled four-cylinder engine. Porsche would ultimately sell over 75,000 356s during its 17 year production run, although only around half are reported to survive today.

The example seen here, serial No. 112480, has been fully restored and is a superb example of T5-bodied 356B production, with an original Reutter body. The T5 body was built from 1959 -- 1961, and features single rear decklid louvering, under-hood fuel filler and a rear window that is smaller than that of the T6-bodied 356B. This particular 356's body was Mounted behind the rear wheels is this 356's original, number-matching 1,600cc flat-four engine. The engine is paired with a four-speed manual transmission driving the rear wheels.

This 356's restoration was commissioned by the Classic Showcase Inc. in Oceanside, CA, and was completed to exacting standards. Originally painted Silver, the body was stripped to bare metal and professionally re-painted in mile-deep black and showcases near flawless panel fit and gaps, and superb brightwork. Inside the two-tone cabin, this 356 has received all-new red upholstery and correct square-weave carpeting. Correct 5-lug wheels are shod with chrome "Super" hubcaps and colored Porsche crest ornamentation.

Included with this 356B is a copy of the Porsche Certificate of Authenticity, maintenance records and a reproduction driver's handbook.

Highly coveted for their place in history and iconic styling, the 356 has long established its place among the upper echelon of collector vehicles. The 356B seen here would be a fantastic addition to any collection, and would qualify as a investment-grade example.