Driver Source
23c (Large)
1956 Porsche 356A “European” Coupe
Chassis No. 55461
Engine No. 60656
Transmission No. 7933
Completed: 01/13/1956
“Many 356 enthusiasts are aware that European-spec cars were imported into the United States when new. Fewer enthusiasts have heard of the 356A "European" badged cars, which are an often misunderstood rarity. The "European" badge did not signify European delivery — in fact, it couldn't be further from the truth!
The 356A model was introduced in the fall of 1955, and some had a side script that proudly identified the car as a "Continental". This name was instigated by Max Hoffman, the exclusive importer of Porsches into the USA who felt that Americans didn't relate to cars that only had model numbers. Previous Porsches had simply been called the "356", which was the Porsche internal design number.
"Continental" Hoffman was convinced that Americans wanted to buy cars with names like "BelAir" or "Fairlane". So, in the spirit of American marketing, Porsche began putting a "Continental" script on the fenders of late 1955 model year coupes and cabriolets that were sent to the United States. Unfortunately for Porsche, Ford Motor Company claimed the rights to the "Continental" name and threatened legal action, so Porsche stopped using that script at the end of the 1955 model year and changed the script to "European" for the 1956 model year (production of which began in the fall of 1955). Cars delivered in Europe did not have the script.
"European" For reasons that are now obscure, Porsche appears to have ceased using the "European" script sometime in January, 1956, well before the end of that production year.
Other than the badge, the "Continental" and "European" cars were standard-specification cars for the United States market, meaning speedometer markings were in miles and the headlights were the sealed beam type. After January, 1956, except for the Speedster and Carrera models no further 356 models were badged with names, only letters were used as model designations. The "European" script does not appear to have ever been reproduced.” - 356 Registry
Chassis No. 55361: This immaculately restored 356A coupe is an extremely exceptional find. Not only is car finished in the very rare Sahara Beige hue offered only in 1956, but it is believed to be one of the last European models ever built.
While under the care of the previous long term owner, the car was fully revived to concourse quality. Some time has passed since the restoration; the glossy paint exhibits slight signs of aging, revealing shallow cracks throughout the surface. However, the remainder of the vehicle survives in impeccable showroom condition.
Mechanically the car is strong and reliable. The 356 drives very well. The ride is smooth, while tracking is straight, even under heavy braking. The only aftermarket item on the European is an upgraded Abarth exhaust system, although the original exhaust accompanies the car.
* One of only 156 European coupes produced!
* Ready to show or drive!
* A very rare treat!
23c (Large)
1956 Porsche 356A “European” Coupe
Chassis No. 55461
Engine No. 60656
Transmission No. 7933
Completed: 01/13/1956
“Many 356 enthusiasts are aware that European-spec cars were imported into the United States when new. Fewer enthusiasts have heard of the 356A "European" badged cars, which are an often misunderstood rarity. The "European" badge did not signify European delivery — in fact, it couldn't be further from the truth!
The 356A model was introduced in the fall of 1955, and some had a side script that proudly identified the car as a "Continental". This name was instigated by Max Hoffman, the exclusive importer of Porsches into the USA who felt that Americans didn't relate to cars that only had model numbers. Previous Porsches had simply been called the "356", which was the Porsche internal design number.
"Continental" Hoffman was convinced that Americans wanted to buy cars with names like "BelAir" or "Fairlane". So, in the spirit of American marketing, Porsche began putting a "Continental" script on the fenders of late 1955 model year coupes and cabriolets that were sent to the United States. Unfortunately for Porsche, Ford Motor Company claimed the rights to the "Continental" name and threatened legal action, so Porsche stopped using that script at the end of the 1955 model year and changed the script to "European" for the 1956 model year (production of which began in the fall of 1955). Cars delivered in Europe did not have the script.
"European" For reasons that are now obscure, Porsche appears to have ceased using the "European" script sometime in January, 1956, well before the end of that production year.
Other than the badge, the "Continental" and "European" cars were standard-specification cars for the United States market, meaning speedometer markings were in miles and the headlights were the sealed beam type. After January, 1956, except for the Speedster and Carrera models no further 356 models were badged with names, only letters were used as model designations. The "European" script does not appear to have ever been reproduced.” - 356 Registry
Chassis No. 55361: This immaculately restored 356A coupe is an extremely exceptional find. Not only is car finished in the very rare Sahara Beige hue offered only in 1956, but it is believed to be one of the last European models ever built.
While under the care of the previous long term owner, the car was fully revived to concourse quality. Some time has passed since the restoration; the glossy paint exhibits slight signs of aging, revealing shallow cracks throughout the surface. However, the remainder of the vehicle survives in impeccable showroom condition.
Mechanically the car is strong and reliable. The 356 drives very well. The ride is smooth, while tracking is straight, even under heavy braking. The only aftermarket item on the European is an upgraded Abarth exhaust system, although the original exhaust accompanies the car.
* One of only 156 European coupes produced!
* Ready to show or drive!
* A very rare treat!