1958→1960 Porsche 356A/1600 Convertible D
In August of 1958 Porsche revised the 356A/1600 Speedster into the Convertible D. In many ways this reflected Porsches desire to make more expensive and premium models. As a result, the $3,695 Convertible was much more expensive than the Speedster it replaced.
As such the new car featured roll-up windows for the first time, a more robust hardtop and a higher windshield for more headroom. Porsche retained the chrome-ringed windshield trim which was iconic of the Speedster.
Inside Porsche retained the Speedster dashboard, but fitted more luxurious seats and door panels with integrated pockets.
Drauz at Heilbronn, Germany was responsible for production of the bodies which explains the Convertible D moniker.
In Detail
| submitted by | Richard Owen |
| type | Series Production Car |
| production years | 1958 – 1960 |
| built at | Stuttgart, Germany |
| body stylist | Erwin Komenda |
| coachbuilder | Drauz |
| price $ | $ 3,695 |
| predeccesor | 1956 Porsche 356A/1600 Speedster |
| succeccesor | 1960 Porsche 356B/1600 T5 Roadster |
| engine | Type 546 Air Cooled Flat-4 |
| position | RearLongitudinalal |
| aspiration | Natural |
| valvetrain | Pushrod OHV |
| fuel feed | Dual Solex 26 VFJ Downdraft |
| displacement | 1582 cc / 96.54 in³ |
| bore | 82.5 mm / 3.2 in |
| stroke | 74 mm / 2.9 in |
| compression | 8.5:1 |
| power | 44.7 kw / 60 bhp @ 4500 rpm |
| specific output | 37.93 bhp per litre |
| bhp/weight | 69.52 bhp per tonne |
| body / frame | Steel Body over Steel Tub Chassis |
| driven wheels | RWD |
| wheel type | Steel Slotted Discs |
| front tires | 5.60×15 Sport |
| rear tires | 5.60×15 Sport |
| front wheels | F 38.1 x 11.4 cm / 15 x 4.5 in |
| rear wheels | R 38.1 x 11.4 cm / 15 x 4.5 in |
| steering | VW Worm & Nut |
| f suspension | VW Parallel Trailing Arms, Boge Telescopic Dampers, 15mm Anti-Roll Bar |
| r suspension | VW Leading Arms w/Torsion Bars, Hydraulic Lever-Arm Shock Absorbers |
| curb weight | 863 kg / 1900 lbs |
| wheelbase | 2101 mm / 82.7 in |
| front track | 1306 mm / 51.4 in |
| rear track | 1272 mm / 50.1 in |
| length | 3950 mm / 155.5 in |
| transmission | VW 4-Speed Manual |
| top speed | ~157.68 kph / 98 mph |
| 0 – 60 mph | ~14.0 seconds |
| 0 – 1/4 mile | ~26.0 seconds |
Auction Sales History
1959 Porsche 356 A Convertible D 86351 – sold for $187,000 Rare and Desirable One-Year-Only Porsche Model. Accompanied by a Copy of the Kardex Production Data Card. Original US-Delivery Example in Factory-Specified Colors. Striking Throughout, Including Interior and Engine Bay. Auction Source: The Scottsdale Auctions 2015 by Gooding & Company
1959 Porsche 356 A 1600 Super Convertible D 86142 – sold for $159,500. Highly desirable Cabriolet D model. Formerly owned for 45 years by enthusiast Brad Smith. Judge’s Choice at Keeneland Concours. A wonderful example with a recent mechanical servicing. Auction Source: Amelia Island 2014 by RM Auctions
1959 Porsche 356 A Convertible D 85977 – sold for $189,750. Very Well-Preserved, High-Quality Older Restoration. Rare and Desirable One-Year-Only Porsche Model. Accompanied by a Copy of the Kardex Production Data Card. Matching-Numbers, Original US-Delivery Example. Just Three Owners from New. Complete with Tool Kit and Owner’s Manual. Exceptional Coachbuilt Quality in a Sporting Package. Auction Source: The Scottsdale Auctions by Gooding & Company
