The Porsche 356 B, introduced in 1959, was the second generation of the Porsche 356 series, following the original 356 A. It featured updated styling, improved safety features, and a more refined ride. The Notchback body style, also known as the Karmann Notchback due to the factory that built the body, is one of the rarer variants of the 356 B. The Notchback was characterised by its unique rear window shape, which gave it a more pronounced, angular appearance compared to the standard coupe. Of the 356 B models produced between 1959 and 1963, the Notchback body style is exceptionally rare, with only approximately 2,000 units produced in total across all model years. Within the 356 B range, the Notchback was produced in very limited numbers, making it one of the rarest and most sought-after body styles among collectors today.

This 1962 Porsche 356 B Karmann Notchback is a numbers-matching car, meaning the body, engine, and transmission are all original to the vehicle. It retains its original black paint, though the interior was replaced in the 1980s. The car was delivered to the USA in 1962 and is believed to have spent the majority of its life in the country. It was stored in dry conditions from 1994 and remained undriven until it was shipped to the UK in 2019. Upon arrival in the UK, the car was subjected to an extensive regiment of restoration work. Completed by 356 experts PRS 356 in 2020, the work included replacing the battery tray, A-member, frame rails, longitude members, front and rear floorpans, pedal board and seat mounts. And since 2022 the car has been driven in the UK by our vendor.

The theme of this car is sympathetic restoration and the car remains in its original shade of black. The paint is heavily patinated throughout which adds a historic depth to the car that is so often lost with concours restorations. Some tweaks have been made, broken-in leather straps are mounted to secure the front bonnet and a period correct roof rack. Important jobs have been completed including new window seals to ensure that the car remains leak free. Inside the authentic patination continues, the lovingly worn in tan trimmings replaced the original red-leatherette fitted at the factory in the 1980's. The gauges are all functioning correctly and feature stunning period typography and colours.

This particular 356 B Notchback is fitted with the Super 90 engine, which was an upgrade offered by Porsche as a factory option. The Super 90 engine was a 1.6 litre flat-four that produced 90bhp, an increase over the standard engine's output, making it a more performance-oriented option. It was a popular choice for those who desired a bit more power in their 356 but still wanted the reliability and drivability that Porsche was known for. In our vendors tenure the engine has undergone a full rebuild, with new pistons and rods, ensuring the car's mechanical integrity for future driving enjoyment. The car has also had the brake system completely replaced, which is an essential upgrade for older cars to ensure reliability and safety. The fuel tank and lines have been renewed, another necessary upgrade to prevent issues associated with older, worn-out components. In addition, new panels have been fitted, and the list of replacements is documented in the provided paperwork (PRS list) and all of this has been undertaken since the car came to the hands of our enthusiast owner in 2020.

The 356 B Notchback is one of the rarer variants of the 356 B series, with only around 2,000 units produced across its production run from 1959 to 1963. With fewer than 80 of these cars estimated to still exist worldwide today, it is an extremely rare find, particularly in a numbers-matching configuration and equipped with the sought-after Super 90 engine. In the UK, only seven are known to be in existence, adding further to its exclusivity.

The car is supplied with its original US Title and all relevant documents, further adding to its provenance. It also retains its original number plate, which is a unique feature for a car of this age. The extensive documentation is a valuable asset for any collector, confirming the car's authenticity and history. This 356 B Karmann Notchback is a highly collectible example of a rare and desirable Porsche model. It has undergone necessary mechanical restoration, including a full engine rebuild, new braking system, and replacement fuel system. Its Super 90 engine provides enhanced performance, and its numbers-matching status further increases its value to collectors. The car's rarity, with only around 2,000 Notchbacks produced and fewer than 80 remaining worldwide, combined with its original US Title and documented history, makes this an exceptional opportunity for any Porsche enthusiast or classic car collector.

Our vendor describes the car in good driving condition and has been used on the road in the UK since 2022, making it ready for its next owner to enjoy both as a piece of automotive history and a functional classic car. Consigned by Mathew Priddy

Lot details
Year: 1962
Make: Porsche
Model: 356 B Super 90 Karmann Notchback
Registration: 108 XVL
Chassis No: 201663
Odometer: 10,917

* Full matching engine, gearbox and chassis
* One of circa 80 Karmann Notchback examples believed to remain worldwide
* One of seven examples in the UK
* Fitted from factory with Super 90 engine