The 1960 Porsche 356B, a legendary sports car, embodies the spirit of Porsche’s early years, marking a pivotal moment in the company’s evolution. This model, a refined successor to the original 356, built upon its predecessor’s success, introducing significant design enhancements and performance upgrades that solidified its reputation as a formidable contender in the world of sports cars.
The 356B’s distinctive design, combining elegant curves with a focus on aerodynamic efficiency, became an instant icon. Its lightweight construction, powerful engine, and precise handling made it a favorite among enthusiasts, earning praise for its exceptional driving experience and timeless appeal.
Overview of the 1960 Porsche 356B
The 1960 Porsche 356B stands as a pivotal model in the history of Porsche, marking a significant evolution from its predecessors. It represents a refinement of the original 356 design, incorporating key improvements that solidified its reputation for performance and handling.
Historical Significance
The 1960 Porsche 356B’s historical significance lies in its role as a bridge between the early 356 models and the iconic 911 that would follow. The 356B, with its enhanced performance and refined features, paved the way for the technological advancements that would define Porsche’s future.
Its success in motorsport, particularly in endurance racing, further solidified its reputation as a high-performance sports car.
Evolution of the Porsche 356
The 356B marked a substantial evolution from the earlier 356 models. The 356B incorporated several key design improvements, including:
- Improved Engine:The 356B featured a larger, more powerful engine, with a displacement of 1.6 liters. This increase in power resulted in a more responsive and exhilarating driving experience.
- Enhanced Suspension:The suspension system was refined to provide improved handling and stability, particularly at higher speeds. This made the 356B a more capable and enjoyable car to drive on both roads and tracks.
- Modernized Styling:The 356B’s exterior design featured subtle but significant updates, including a revised front grille and headlights, which gave the car a more modern and streamlined appearance.
Key Design Features
The 1960 Porsche 356B was distinguished from earlier models by a number of key design features, including:
- Larger Engine:The 356B’s engine was significantly larger than its predecessors, with a displacement of 1.6 liters compared to the 1.5-liter engine in the earlier 356A. This resulted in a more powerful and responsive driving experience.
- Improved Suspension:The 356B’s suspension was redesigned to provide better handling and stability, particularly at higher speeds. This was achieved through the use of a revised front suspension design and improved shock absorbers.
- Revised Bodywork:The 356B featured subtle but significant updates to its bodywork, including a revised front grille and headlights, which gave the car a more modern and streamlined appearance.
- Improved Interior:The 356B’s interior was also updated with a more modern and functional design, including a new dashboard layout and improved seating.
Engine and Performance: 1960 Porsche 356B
The 1960 Porsche 356B was powered by a rear-mounted, air-cooled, four-cylinder engine that was renowned for its smooth and responsive performance. This engine, combined with the car’s lightweight construction, gave the 356B a remarkable power-to-weight ratio, making it a thrilling driving experience.
Engine Specifications
The 1960 Porsche 356B was available with two engine options:
- 1.6-liter (1582 cc) engine:This engine produced 60 horsepower (45 kW) at 4800 rpm and 8.2 kgâ‹…m (80.4 Nâ‹…m) of torque at 3200 rpm.
- 1.6-liter (1582 cc) engine with fuel injection:This engine, known as the “Super 90,” produced 90 horsepower (67 kW) at 5800 rpm and 12.5 kgâ‹…m (122.5 Nâ‹…m) of torque at 4000 rpm.
Both engines were paired with a four-speed manual transmission.
Performance Comparison
The 1960 Porsche 356B, particularly the Super 90 model, offered impressive performance for its time. The Super 90, with its fuel injection system, was capable of reaching a top speed of around 115 mph (185 km/h) and could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph (0 to 97 km/h) in approximately 10 seconds.When compared to other contemporary sports cars, the 1960 Porsche 356B held its own.
For instance, the 1960 Jaguar XK150, a popular British sports car, had a top speed of around 120 mph (193 km/h) and could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 9 seconds. However, the 356B was known for its nimble handling and precise steering, making it a more rewarding car to drive on winding roads.
Handling and Driving Characteristics
The 1960 Porsche 356B was praised for its excellent handling and driving characteristics. The car’s lightweight construction and rear-engine layout gave it a balanced weight distribution, resulting in exceptional agility and responsiveness. The 356B’s suspension system, featuring independent front and rear suspension, provided a comfortable ride while also offering precise control.
The 1960 Porsche 356B, a refined iteration of the iconic 356, offered a number of improvements over its predecessors. One notable change was the adoption of a larger, more powerful engine, building on the legacy of its earlier model, the 1955 Porsche 356.
This engine upgrade, combined with other enhancements, made the 356B a truly capable sports car, solidifying its place in automotive history.
The car’s steering was precise and responsive, allowing for accurate and confident cornering.The 356B’s driving experience was characterized by its responsiveness and agility. The engine, particularly the fuel-injected Super 90, provided ample power for spirited driving. The car’s lightweight construction and precise handling made it a joy to drive on winding roads.
Exterior and Interior Design
The 1960 Porsche 356B showcased a timeless design that blended classic styling with a touch of modernism. Its exterior and interior design elements contributed to its enduring appeal, making it a sought-after classic sports car.
Exterior Design, 1960 Porsche 356B
The 356B’s exterior design retained the iconic features of its predecessors, while incorporating subtle refinements. The bodywork featured a sleek and aerodynamic profile, characterized by its rounded curves and flowing lines. The front end sported a distinctive grille with a horizontal chrome strip and a prominent Porsche crest.
The headlights were integrated into the bodywork, lending a streamlined appearance. The rear end featured a distinctive “ducktail” spoiler, which was introduced on the 356B models. This spoiler not only enhanced the car’s aesthetic appeal but also improved its aerodynamic performance.
The 356B was available in a range of wheel options, including 15-inch steel wheels with hubcaps and optional 15-inch aluminum wheels. The wheels were typically fitted with whitewall tires, adding a touch of elegance to the car’s overall appearance.
Interior Design
The 356B’s interior was designed to offer a driver-focused experience. The dashboard featured a simple yet functional layout, with instruments positioned within easy reach of the driver. The steering wheel was a classic three-spoke design, providing a comfortable grip. The seats were upholstered in a variety of materials, including leather and cloth, and were designed to offer a balance of comfort and support.The interior trim was available in a range of colors and materials, allowing buyers to personalize their 356B.
The 1960 Porsche 356B, with its iconic rounded body and rear-engine configuration, represented a significant step forward in Porsche’s design philosophy. It built upon the legacy of its predecessor, the 1955 Porsche Spyder , a car that became synonymous with speed and elegance.
While the Spyder was known for its lightweight construction and race-focused design, the 356B aimed to offer a more refined and comfortable driving experience, while still retaining the legendary Porsche performance.
The 356B’s interior was known for its craftsmanship and attention to detail, reflecting Porsche’s commitment to quality.
Color Options and Trim Levels
The 1960 Porsche 356B was available in a wide range of exterior colors, including solid colors like black, white, and red, as well as metallic finishes like silver and blue. The interior trim was available in a variety of colors and materials, allowing buyers to personalize their 356B.
The 1960 Porsche 356B, a classic sports car, exemplified the brand’s commitment to performance and elegant design. This era marked a significant shift in Porsche’s evolution, laying the groundwork for future iconic models like the 1999 Porsche 911. The 356B, with its lightweight construction and air-cooled engine, offered a thrilling driving experience, showcasing Porsche’s engineering prowess that would later define the 911 series.
The 356B was offered in two trim levels: the standard model and the more luxurious “Super 90” model. The Super 90 model featured a more powerful engine, along with additional features such as a sunroof and leather upholstery.
Production and Legacy
The 1960 Porsche 356B marked a significant chapter in the brand’s history, not only for its production numbers but also for its impact on future model development and its enduring popularity among collectors and enthusiasts.
Production Numbers
The 1960 Porsche 356B was produced in substantial numbers, reflecting its growing popularity and the company’s commitment to expanding its reach. A total of 7,202 units were manufactured during this year, representing a significant increase compared to previous years. This production volume was crucial in establishing the 356 as a successful and widely recognized model, laying the foundation for Porsche’s future success.
Impact on Future Model Development
The 1960 Porsche 356B served as a crucial stepping stone in Porsche’s model development, introducing several features and design elements that would become hallmarks of the brand. The 356B’s improved suspension and handling, along with its powerful engine options, set the stage for the iconic 911, which would eventually replace the 356.
The 356B’s focus on performance and driving dynamics, along with its sleek and timeless design, would influence generations of Porsche models to come.
Enduring Popularity
The 1960 Porsche 356B continues to hold a special place in the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts, with its classic design and impressive performance making it a highly sought-after classic car. The 356B’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and its role in shaping Porsche’s legacy.
Notable Examples and Variations
The 1960 Porsche 356B was a highly successful model, and its production run saw several notable variations and special editions that catered to different tastes and performance demands. These examples demonstrate the 356B’s versatility and the company’s commitment to innovation.
Special Editions
The 356B saw several special editions that aimed to enhance its appeal and performance. These editions often featured unique styling elements, upgraded engines, and exclusive interior appointments.
- 356B Carrera GT:This model, introduced in 1960, was a high-performance version of the 356B, featuring a larger, 1.6-liter engine producing 115 horsepower. The Carrera GT also had a distinctive, lightweight body and a revised suspension for improved handling. It was designed for both road and track use and was a popular choice for racing enthusiasts.
- 356B Super 90:Introduced in 1963, the Super 90 was a limited-production model designed to celebrate the 356’s 10th anniversary. It was based on the Carrera GT and featured a more powerful, 130-horsepower engine, a unique front grille, and a special interior. Only 100 Super 90s were produced, making it one of the rarest and most sought-after 356 variants.
Variations and Upgrades
Throughout its production run, the 356B underwent several changes and upgrades, reflecting Porsche’s constant pursuit of refinement and performance. These variations were often subtle but significant, impacting the car’s handling, performance, and overall character.
- Engine Upgrades:The 356B’s engine underwent several revisions during its production run, resulting in increased power and torque. The early 356B models were equipped with a 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engine producing 75 horsepower. Later models received a larger, 1.8-liter engine, which produced 90 horsepower.
The most powerful 356B engine was found in the Carrera GT and Super 90 models, with outputs of 115 and 130 horsepower, respectively.
- Suspension and Chassis:Porsche engineers made continuous improvements to the 356B’s suspension and chassis throughout its production run, resulting in better handling and stability. These upgrades included changes to the suspension geometry, spring rates, and shock absorbers, contributing to the 356B’s reputation for being a capable and agile sports car.
- Exterior and Interior Design:The 356B’s exterior and interior design evolved over time, with subtle changes in the styling and features. These changes included the introduction of new headlights, taillights, and interior trim, adding to the car’s visual appeal and functionality. The most significant exterior change was the introduction of the “T” model in 1963, which featured a larger, more prominent rear window and a redesigned rear decklid.
The 1960 356B in Popular Culture
The 1960 Porsche 356B, with its timeless design and iconic status, has captured the imaginations of filmmakers, television producers, and authors, making appearances in a variety of media. Its sleek lines and sporty performance have made it a popular choice for representing both the glamour and the thrill of the automotive world.
Appearances in Movies
The 356B has graced the silver screen in numerous films, often serving as a symbol of style, wealth, or a certain era. Some notable appearances include:
- “The Thomas Crown Affair” (1968): Starring Steve McQueen, this classic heist film features a 1960 356B in a striking silver color. The car is seen being driven by the titular character, Thomas Crown, during a daring bank robbery. Its sleek lines and sporty performance complement the film’s stylish and sophisticated tone.
- “The Italian Job” (1969): This action-comedy features a trio of 356Bs, driven by Michael Caine and his team, as they navigate the streets of Turin, Italy, in a thrilling heist. The 356Bs are used for their agility and maneuverability, making them ideal for navigating the narrow streets and tight corners of the city.
- “The Great Gatsby” (2013): This adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel features a 1960 356B in a striking yellow color. The car is seen being driven by the protagonist, Jay Gatsby, as he attempts to recapture the past and win back his lost love.
Its opulent design and luxurious interior reflect Gatsby’s wealth and extravagance.
Collecting and Restoration
The 1960 Porsche 356B is a highly sought-after classic car, with a dedicated collector base and a thriving restoration market. Understanding the intricacies of identifying, evaluating, and restoring these vehicles is essential for potential buyers and enthusiasts alike.
Identifying and Evaluating a 1960 Porsche 356B
When considering the purchase of a 1960 Porsche 356B, a thorough inspection is paramount. This involves examining the car’s overall condition, verifying its authenticity, and assessing its potential restoration needs.
- Body and Chassis:Inspect the body for rust, dents, and misaligned panels. The chassis should be free of cracks and distortions. Look for signs of previous repairs or modifications, which can indicate potential issues.
- Engine and Transmission:The engine should run smoothly and quietly. Check for oil leaks, excessive smoke, and unusual noises. The transmission should shift smoothly and without hesitation.
- Interior:The interior should be in good condition, with no major tears or rips in the upholstery. The dashboard and gauges should be functional and in good working order.
- Documentation:Obtain as much documentation as possible, including the original owner’s manual, service records, and any historical information. This documentation can help verify the car’s authenticity and provide insights into its past maintenance and repairs.
- Expert Inspection:Consider hiring a qualified Porsche mechanic or restoration specialist to conduct a comprehensive inspection. This professional assessment can provide valuable insights into the car’s condition and potential restoration costs.
Restoring a 1960 Porsche 356B
Restoring a 1960 Porsche 356B to its original condition can be a challenging but rewarding endeavor. The process requires a combination of specialized knowledge, meticulous attention to detail, and a passion for classic cars.
- Research and Planning:Begin by thoroughly researching the specific model and year of your 356B. Gather information on its original specifications, paint codes, and interior materials. This research will guide the restoration process and ensure accuracy.
- Disassembly and Inspection:Disassemble the car carefully, documenting each step and noting any missing or damaged parts. Inspect all components for wear, corrosion, and potential defects.
- Restoration Work:The restoration process may involve bodywork, paint, engine rebuild, interior refurbishment, and mechanical repairs. It is crucial to use high-quality parts and materials to ensure authenticity and longevity.
- Assembly and Testing:Once the restoration work is complete, reassemble the car meticulously, ensuring all components are properly installed and aligned. Thoroughly test the engine, transmission, brakes, and other systems to ensure proper functionality.
- Documentation:Maintain detailed records of the restoration process, including the parts used, labor hours, and any modifications made. This documentation can be valuable for future reference and potentially increase the car’s value.
Key Factors Affecting Value
| Factor | Impact on Value |
|---|---|
| Original Condition | Cars in original, unrestored condition command a premium. |
| Restoration Quality | A well-executed restoration using authentic parts can significantly enhance value. |
| Rarity and Options | Rare models, special editions, and desirable options contribute to higher value. |
| Documentation | Comprehensive documentation, including service records and historical information, increases credibility and value. |
| Market Demand | Fluctuations in the classic car market can affect the value of a 356B. |
Conclusion
The 1960 Porsche 356B’s legacy continues to resonate with car enthusiasts today, representing a golden era of sports car design and performance. Its enduring popularity among collectors and enthusiasts is a testament to its enduring appeal, a symbol of a bygone era when driving was an art form.
The 356B’s impact on Porsche’s future model development is undeniable, inspiring generations of engineers and designers to push the boundaries of performance and innovation.