Porsche 356 (1948-1965): books - history (2/2)

Original Porsche 356 - The Restorer's Guide to all Coupé, Cabriolet, Roadster and Speedster models 1950-65

The Porsche 356, with its Volkswagen-derived rear-mounted air-cooled engine, established a lineage that continues today with the iconic 911. Known for its distinctive design, advanced engineering, and strong driving appeal, the 356 remains a highly regarded classic.

Produced in four model phases - Pre-A, A, B, and C - the 356 evolved with continuous improvements while preserving its original character. Many surviving examples exist today, but only a few retain their completely authentic specifications, a key concern for serious collectors. Determining the correct original details for restoration can be challenging, but "Original Porsche 356" provides the essential reference.

Reissued after being out of print for years, this classic study offers detailed information on the evolution of the model. It covers all variants, including the coupé and cabriolet, as well as the stylish Speedster and high-performance Carrera. The book documents factory-original specifications, equipment, and finishes, ensuring accuracy for restorers and enthusiasts.
Featuring 200 specially commissioned color photographs, "Original Porsche 356" showcases 18 outstanding examples, making it an invaluable resource for those passionate about this legendary sports car.

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The 356 Porsche: A Restorer's Guide to Authenticity

This book provides a detailed, year-by-year guide for owners and buyers of the Porsche 356. Covering models from 1950 to 1965, it examines every documented and undocumented change, including major mechanical components. It also includes precise chassis number records and comprehensive listings of original colors and upholstery.

With over 45.000 copies sold worldwide, this book is now in its third revised edition - an impressive achievement considering only about 76.000 Porsche 356s were ever produced.

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Porsche 356 (1952-1965) - Brooklands Portfolio

Brooklands Portfolio book about the Porsche 356 models from the years 1952-1965. Describes the Porsche 356 A, B, C, S, SC, SS, GS, 1500, 1600, 2L, Carrera, Super, 75, 90, coupé and cabriolet.

• The 61 articles, taken from contemporary British and American car magazines, provide much information about history, model changes and technology.
• Also driving impressions, tests, comparison tests, technical specifications, etc.

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More information on the Brooklands Portfolio books

Porsche 356 (model years 1950-1965) - Essential Buyer's Guide

Would you love to buy the original Porsche 356, but are scared of owning an expensive lemon? Help is at hand! This is the complete guide to finding the best available example of the classic rear-engined Porsche 356 for a sum you can afford.
Insight from real ownership experience is coupled with unparalleled technical knowledge, resulting in the first dedicated guidebook for potential buyers of the Porsche 356.

A comprehensive guide, including an inspection checklist that buyers can use when viewing a car, photos of key areas to check, and known issues for each model.
Market and value data are also supplied to help give an idea of what a specific Porsche 356 is worth. The guide has an overview of key specifications and potential upgrades.
From whether a Porsche 356 is a suitable car for you, to the cost considerations to be taken into account when searching for and viewing a used model, the author aims to arm the prospective buyer with enough knowledge and insight to be able to assess any Porsche 356, and quickly conclude whether to make a purchase.
Take the first step towards finding your dream car, by reading this guide today.

Covers the Porsche 356, 356A, 356B and 356C, including Speedster, Roadster, Convertible D and Carrera. Models years 1950-1965.

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Porsche 356 - made by Reutter

The partnership between Porsche and Stuttgarter Karosseriewerk Reutter & Co. GmbH was more than just a strategic alliance, marked by mutual respect and collaboration. Reutter, established in 1906, began producing prototypes for Volkswagen under Porsche's direction in 1931.

In 1949, Porsche commissioned Reutter to manufacture 500 bodies for the Porsche 356, with the first German-made 356 completed in Reutter's factory I in 1950. Subsequently, Porsche acquired land from Reutter to establish a new motor manufacturing site within its factory II premises in Zuffenhausen, where the majority of Porsche 356s were produced in close cooperation.

Author Frank Jung, Albert Reutter's great-grandson, conducted thorough research, uncovering unique photographs and texts through interviews with former staff and witnesses, forming the basis of this book.

Illustrated with historical photos and previously unpublished documents, the book chronicles the collaborative efforts between Porsche and Reutter, spanning from the 1930s to 1964. It details the development of the Porsche 356 bodywork, including prototypes and special vehicles, leading to the evolution of the Porsche 911. The narrative, enriched by material from the Reutter family archive and other sources, provides a comprehensive account of this automotive milestone.

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Porsche - Origin of the Species

Jerry Seinfeld's Porsche collection boasts a hidden gem, the Porsche Gmünd coupe 356/2-040. Captured through Michael Furman's evocative portraits, this remarkably preserved 040 showcases the artistry, innovation, and determination behind its creation.

This iconic car serves as the inspiration for "Porsche Origin of the Species," an exploration by automotive historian Karl Ludvigsen into the influences and circumstances that birthed the first Porsche-badged sports cars. Ludvigsen delves into the Porsche team's journey to a Gmünd sawmill and examines the impact of pre-war and wartime Porsche cars and engines on the 356's development. He uncovers the real connection between the tube-framed Type 356 roadster and the first 356/2 coupes.

The book addresses these inquiries, revealing the powerful and enduring DNA that continues to influence Porsche's design and style in the twenty-first century. It unravels a tale of mechanical innovation, human drama, and the backdrop of world war. "Porsche Origin of the Species" is an essential read for car enthusiasts eager to understand the origins that shaped all subsequent Porsches.

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Porsche 356 - la genèse d'un mythe

Derived from the Volkswagen designed by Ferdinand Porsche, the 356 was the first production car to bear his name, marking the birth of a legend.

This book presents the complete history of the Porsche 356, including its rally and racing versions. It also explores the early years of a brand that became a symbol of sports cars and automotive excellence.

This revised and updated edition features nearly 300 illustrations, mostly in color. It also covers 356 Replica models, production figures, technical specifications of series models, and offers advice on buying and restoring these cars.

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Porsche 356 (1948-1965) : Les racines de l'aventure

The Porsche 356, the brand's first car, was initially handcrafted by Ferry Porsche in Gmünd, Austria. He believed that 50 to 100 units would be enough to meet demand. However, by March 1951, the 500th Porsche 356 had been produced, followed by the 1, 000th just six months later.

By the time production ended in 1965, a total of 78.745 units had been built across all versions. Its legacy continued with the Porsche 912 until 1969, alongside the 911.

Today, the 356 is highly sought after by collectors. Some models, such as the Speedster, exceed €500.000 in value. Its appeal is not just due to its rarity - every Porsche has a unique character.

This book tells the story of the Porsche 356, from its creation in 1948 to the end of its production in 1965. It is a hardcover edition of the special issue "L'Aventure Automobile" No. 3.

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Porsche 356

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After World War II, Porsche introduced its first car, the 356, in 1948. Produced until 1965, it evolved through four distinct series and came in coupe, cabriolet, speedster, hardtop, and roadster versions.
From 1953, racing models emerged, with Rennsport Spyders dominating competitions for over a decade. The 356 paved the way for Porsche icons like the 550 Spyder, Speedster, and 904.
It captivated both top European racers of the 1950s and Hollywood stars like Paul Newman and Steve McQueen in the 1960s. Today, it remains a highly sought-after classic and a symbol of style.

This book explores the history of the 356 and its pivotal role in making Porsche one of the world's leading sports car brands.

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Porsche 356 No. 1 - The Story

The Porsche 356 "Number 1" epitomizes the dream car: In 1948, it fulfilled Ferry Porsche's long-held desire for his own sports car. Its aluminum body design set a standard, but more importantly, its emphasis on driving dynamics and lightweight construction became foundational to the brand.
The DNA of the 356 "Number 1" still influences every Porsche today. The roadster's story is as unique as the prototype itself.

This book, filled with photographs and previously unpublished documents, chronicles the tumultuous journey of Porsche's inaugural sports car from its initial design drawing.

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