Porsche 356
The refined evolution of Porsche's first production sports car.
- Power
- 60 bhp
- Top speed
- 99 mph
- Est. value
- $60k–$125k
About the Porsche 356
The 356B, introduced in 1959 with the T5 body style, represented a significant maturation of Porsche's foundational model. It featured higher-mounted headlights and bumpers to meet US regulations, alongside a more comfortable interior and improved gearbox synchronisation. The 1600 'Normal' variant served as the entry point, offering a reliable pushrod engine that prioritised smooth delivery over the peaky performance of the Super 90. For collectors, the 356B is prized for its blend of classic bathtub styling and improved daily usability compared to earlier 'Pre-A' and 'A' models.
Porsche 356 specs
The Porsche 356 produces 60 bhp (45 kW) and 110 Nm (81 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 99 mph (160 km/h).
| Make | Porsche |
|---|---|
| Model | 356 |
| Trim | 356B 1600 |
| Years | 1959–1963 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | Germany |
| Production | About 30,963 built |
| Original price | About $3,600 when new |
| Engine | 1.6-litre air-cooled flat-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,582 cc (1.6 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 60 bhp (45 kW) at 4,500 rpm |
| Torque | 110 Nm (81 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,000 rpm |
| Top speed | 99 mph (160 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 850 kg (1,874 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 71 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Porsche 356 worth?
A typical Porsche 356 is estimated to be worth $60,000 – $125,000 (about £45,000 – £93,000).
Its original price when new was about $3,600.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Porsche 356 rarity in CarSpot
The Porsche 356 is an Epic card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 66 out of 100. Supercars and serious performance cars, typically worth around £100,000 to £250,000. An Epic card is worth 80 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Porsche 356 fun facts
- The 356B T5 body is easily identified by its single engine grille, whereas the later T6 body introduced in late 1961 featured twin grilles.
- The 1600 Normal engine used Zenith 32 NDIX carburetors and a modest 7.5:1 compression ratio for better reliability on lower-octane fuel.
- Coachwork for the 356B Coupé was primarily handled by Reutter, though Karmann also produced a unique 'Notchback' hardtop version.
