1954 Porsche 356 Has Perfect Patina
Heavy patina like this 356 wears is appealing to a lot of folks these days.
Well Worn
There was a time, not too long ago, when people would never dream of leaving a patina-covered car as-is, choosing instead to restore that worn bodywork and treat it to a fresh paint job. That isn't the case today, however, a time when more folks appreciate the work that nature has done to metal. For them, this well-worn 1954 Porsche 356 we spotted over at Classic Cars should have plenty of appeal.
Photos: Classic Cars
No Serious Rust
The 356 has become a highly sought after and highly valuable collectible in recent years, and this one looks like a true barn find, which should make it a hit with collectors. And even though it looks pretty rough, there is apparently no serious rust to be found on a car that hasn't been driven since the 1970s, according to the seller.
Photos: Classic Cars
>>Join the conversation about this classic 356 right here in the Rennlist forum.
All There
The floors and battery box remain in solid shape, and this 356 still has its original, numbers matching drivetrain intact. It seems that the vintage ride is completely intact and original as well, which is a bit of an anomaly in the world of the first mass-produced Porsche road car, too.
Photos: Classic Cars
>>Join the conversation about this classic 356 right here in the Rennlist forum.
Very Original
With just one owner since 1958 and 80k original miles, this 356 certainly has a lot going for it, in spite of its seemingly ragged condition. It's finished in Pearl Grey paint with a Kunstl Blue interior and still wears a host of original parts, including the 16-inch wheels, hubcaps, interior, gas tank, bumpers, glass, and radio.
Photos: Classic Cars
>>Join the conversation about this classic 356 right here in the Rennlist forum.
Normal Wear
This vintage Porsche's long-time owner - a retired Cal Fire official - purchased it in San Francisco in 1958 and drove it for many years before parking it for decades. The seller notes that the engine turns freely, and the body panel gaps look great as well. It seems that only the ills of time have aged the car, not improper wear and tear.
Photos: Classic Cars
>>Join the conversation about this classic 356 right here in the Rennlist forum.
Only Original Once
The selling dealer chose not to clean up the 356 before selling it, because that's precisely what a lot of folks like these days. They want to see things like patina and dirt, the sort of characteristics that make this old vehicle something like an archaeologist might find. After all, a car can only be original once.
Photos: Classic Cars
>>Join the conversation about this classic 356 right here in the Rennlist forum.
Happy Hunting
In spite of a high asking price of $165,995, this 1954 Porsche 356 found a new home rather quickly, which is a testament to how hot heavily patina'd barn finds are these days. Even if they may not be for everyone, quite a few folks appreciate this well-weathered look, and that has more people out barn hunting than ever before.
Photos: Classic Cars
>>Join the conversation about this classic 356 right here in the Rennlist forum.
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