Based largely on the ultra-rare, Gläser-built 356 America of 1953 and even retaining its Type 540 internal designation, Porsche’s Reutter-built Speedster debuted in 1954. In the background, the Speedster owes much of its existence to renowned U.S. importer Max Hoffman, who understood the needs of the buoyant American market and convinced his European partners to build specific models to meet them. Built to a sub-$3,000 price and equipped with only the bare necessities, the Speedster offered its buyers an economical and elemental, but characteristically Porsche, driving experience. Along with the other 356-based Porsche models, the Speedster was soon offered in improved 356A form and upgraded with a 1.6L engine. Favored by racing enthusiasts for its lighter weight and consequently sharper braking and handling characteristics, the Speedster immediately established a formidable reputation on American race tracks. On the street, the Speedster exuded a youthful, avant-garde image that remains enticing today. Perhaps a July 1955 MotorTrend test summarized the Speedster experience best: “Its size, power, easy shift and steering make it fun to drive …” According to marque experts, Porsche built 4,145 Speedsters across six model years, including 1,056 for 1956. Part of a private collection for more than 30 years, this 356A from 1956 was originally produced in the color combination of Rot (red) with Leder Schwarz (black leather) upholstery and delivered new in December 1956 to Raffay Porsche of Hamburg, Germany. Interestingly, the Speedster’s original owner was West Coast SCCA racer Jack Brumby of Los Angeles, California, who drove a wide array of top European sports cars from 1953 through 1960. Powered by an air-cooled 1600cc flat-4 engine and 4-speed manual gearbox, the red Speedster’s iconic body style by Reutter is enhanced by a very rare and valuable set of Rudge knock-off wheels. Other desirable features include red upholstery piping, a black soft top and matching tonneau cover, a “1950-1955 German Sportscar Champion” Meister Shaften dash badge, VDO instruments including the speedometer, tachometer and oil-temperature gauge, front and rear bumper over-riders, and pre-1957 “beehive” style tail lights. Documents accompanying this iconic classic Porsche include a driver’s manual, maintenance records and a copy of the factory Kardex production record.
