1962 Porsche 356B/1600 T6 Roadster
The ultimate version of the 356 Roadster was the T6 built in very low numbers in 1962. These used numerous T5 and T6 traits and were made by D’Ieteren Freres S.A. in Belgium as a replacement to the T5 Roadster.
With the introduction of the T6 bodies on the 356B platform, Porsche switched production of the Roadster from Drauz to D’Ieteren Freres. These were identified by twin intake grilles on the engine cover and the model is sometimes named after them. The car benefited from a host of T6 upgrades such as variable speed wipers, adjustable seats, an anti-theft lockable shifter
T6 production began at Porsche in September 1961 and the T6 Roadster was produced before the end of the year. Compared to the preceding convertible D, these models could be ordered with the Super 90 engine. The other engines were only slightly upgraded for the T6, but the Super 90 received a A12 Haussermann clutch
D’Ieteren Freres was responsible for creating the Roadster bodies, painting them, then installing the various components to complete the car.1
Only 249 Roadsters were produced by D’Ieteren Freres then the model was phased out in favor of the cabriolet. Specification is for the Super 90 engine.
In Detail
| type | Series Production Car |
| built at | Belgium |
| production | 249 |
| engine | Super 90 616/7 Flat-4 |
| power | 64.1 kw / 86 bhp @ 5500 rpm |
| bhp/weight | 94.71 bhp per tonne |
| torque | 120.7 nm / 89 ft lbs @ 4300 rpm |
| redline | 6000 |
| curb weight | 908 kg / 2000 lbs |
| top speed | ~176.99 kph / 110 mph |
| 0 – 60 mph | ~11.5 seconds |
| 0 – 1/4 mile | ~18.0 seconds |
| fuel capacity | 50 litres or 13.20 gal. |
Auction Sales History
1962 Porsche 356 B Twin Grille Roadster 89667 – sold for $253,000 One of 248 Examples Built. Matching-Numbers Engine and Transmission. Just Four Owners Since New. Kardex-Correct Color Combination. One of the Finest Restored Twin-Grilles. Auction Source: Gooding & Company’s 10th Anniversary 2013 Pebble Beach Auction
1962 Porsche 356B/1600S T6 Roadster 89753 – sold for $172,000. According to the 356 Registry this car’s history can be traced through a number of Californian owners, the earliest on their listing being Dr. Ralph Harder, then Bob Davidson, Brian Burnett and Neil McSwain. After this it passed through two noted specialists of the marque, European Collectibles and Classic Showcase. In the latter ownership it is understood to have been the subject of a comprehensive cosmetic refurbishment in the mid-2000s. That work included a bare metal respray and re-trim to the black and tan scheme it wears today, a livery which shows the chrome accents well externally and the interior contrasts well. Headrests are fitted to both seats. Shortly after this it passed into the current ownership of the prestigious Oldenburg Collection. When it arrived in this custody, it was systematically checked over and worked through so that it would always be ready to use, and its maintenance has continued over the last 5 years. Auction Source: 2011 Quail Lodge Sale by Bonhams
