Light, simple, and fast – that describes the brilliant Porsche 356 Speedster. It was created at the behest of American distributor Max Hoffman, who told Ferry Porsche that the still-fledgling automaker needed something to compete with the popular British and Italian imports of the day. And it had to be priced competitively. However, boasting high-quality engineering, materials, and workmanship, Porsche cars of the early 1950s were as costly as Cadillacs. Hoffman suggested that Porsche build a spartan car with minimal creature comforts, all for around $3,000.

Starting with a few cabriolets that were already on the assembly line, Porsche removed their integral windshield frames and installed cut-down and easily removable windshields, a thin fabric folding top, and side-curtains in lieu of heavier wind-up windows. The cockpit contained a pair of light semi-competition bucket seats with ventilated but non-adjustable backrests. Speedsters, as Hoffman had demanded, were stripped of just about everything else. Even the tachometer was “optional at extra cost,” though every Speedster had one. The result was a sophisticated little sports car that was easily put into racing trim.

Soon, these hand-assembled Speedsters were dominating the American amateur racing scene. At the outset, they were equipped with a 1.5-liter engine, but soon larger and more powerful motors became available, up to and including the potent but very complex Fuhrmann-designed four-cam Carrera. The 1600 Normal engines produced about 60 hp, the Super was good for 75, and the Carrera engine made an easy 100 or more.

According to a copy of its factory warranty Kardex, this 356 A Speedster was completed on 21 December 1956, finished in Signal Red with a black leatherette interior. It was equipped with U.S.-specification instruments, bumpers and over-riders, and sealed-beam headlights. This car’s early history is unknown, but about a dozen years ago it was purchased in rough condition by an Oklahoma enthusiast. In the course of a restoration, all the expected areas of corrosion such as floor pans, longitudinals, battery box, and other affected panels were repaired or replaced, as necessary. The owner specified a change in color, choosing the always-attractive Aquamarine Blue Metallic, paired with a tan leatherette interior, tan top, and tan tonneau. A set of chromed steel wheels has also been fitted. It is currently powered by a 1967 912 engine (Type 616/36), but its original Type 616/1 engine, no. 63872, is included, as is its original transmission with BBAB gearing.

Speedsters are a thrilling drive and always in demand; here is an excellent driving example that can be enjoyed as-is.