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1961 Porsche 356B 1600 Normal Roadster

1961 Porsche 356B 1600 Normal Roadster

2 seats
• Inline-4
• Manual
• RWD
• Gasoline
Porsche
Made by Porsche
Germany
• Manufacturing since 1931
High Performance

75 horsepower engine

Strong Torque

100 lb-ft of torque

Fuel Efficient

25 MPG combined

The 1961 Porsche 356B 1600 Normal Roadster is a classic sports car that embodies the essence of Porsche's engineering excellence and timeless design. Powered by a 1.6-liter flat-four engine, it produces approximately 75 horsepower, providing a spirited driving experience. The lightweight construction and rear-engine layout contribute to its agile handling and responsiveness. With its elegant lines and open-top design, the 356B Roadster appeals to enthusiasts who appreciate vintage style and performance. This model is celebrated for its blend of everyday usability and sporty character, making it a sought-after collector's item.

Specifications you get

75 hp
25 MPG combined
2 passengers
Manual
RWD

All specifications

Engine And Performance

Engine type Inline-4
Engine displacement 1,582 cc
Cylinders 4
Horsepower 75
Torque 100
Power to weight ratio 28.00 hp/kg

Performance Metrics

Top speed 100.0 km/h
Zero to sixty 11.0 sec
Quarter mile time 18.0 sec

Exterior Dimensions

Length 162.0 mm
Width 65.0 mm
Height 50.0 mm
Wheelbase 85.0 mm
Ground clearance 5.5 mm

Interior And Capacity

Seating capacity 2
Curb weight 2,100.0 kg
Cargo volume 4door 6.0 L

Other Specifications

Drive train type RWD

Drivetrain

Transmission gears 4
Fuel type Gasoline
Transmission description Manual

Safety

Safety rating N/A

Pricing And Value

Msrp $4,000.00
Depreciation curve [[1, 0.85], [2, 0.7], [3, 0.6], [4, 0.5], [5, 0.4]]
Estimated cost of ownership $25,000.00

Emissions

Emissions rating Euro 1
Co2 primary 150.0 g/km

Fuel Economy And Range

City mpg primary 22.0 mpg
Combined mpg primary exact 25.0 mpg
Highway mpg primary exact 30.0 mpg

Features you get

1.6-liter Flat-4 Engine
4-Speed Manual Transmission
Independent Front Suspension

All features

Performance

1.6-liter Flat-4 Engine
The Porsche 356B 1600 Normal Roadster is powered by a 1.6-liter flat-four engine, producing approximately 75 horsepower. This engine configuration is renowned for its lightweight and compact design, contributing to the vehicle's agile handling and spirited performance. Compared to competitors of the era, the 356B offers a balanced blend of performance and efficiency, making it a popular choice among sports car enthusiasts.
4-Speed Manual Transmission
Equipped with a 4-speed manual transmission, the 356B 1600 Normal Roadster offers a direct, engaging driving experience. This transmission is designed for smooth shifting and precise control, allowing drivers to harness the engine's power effectively. Compared to automatic options available in some contemporaries, the manual transmission enhances the sportiness and driver involvement characteristic of the Porsche brand.
Independent Front Suspension
The independent front suspension system in the 356B contributes to improved handling and ride comfort. This design allows each wheel to respond independently to road conditions, enhancing stability during cornering. It sets the 356B apart from many other vehicles of its time that utilized more traditional suspension setups, thus providing a more refined driving experience.
Rear Swing Axle Suspension
The Porsche 356B 1600 Normal Roadster features a rear swing axle suspension system that enhances handling and stability. This design allows for better weight distribution and improved cornering characteristics, especially in tight bends. Compared to conventional leaf spring setups in competitor models, it offers a more responsive and engaging driving experience, a hallmark of Porsche engineering.
Torsion Bar Suspension
The 356B utilizes a torsion bar suspension system that provides excellent ride quality and handling. This setup minimizes body roll during cornering and enhances overall stability. Compared to traditional coil spring suspensions found in some other sports cars, the torsion bar design offers a more compact and lightweight solution, contributing to the 356B’s agile performance and driving dynamics.
Independent Rear Suspension
The Porsche 356B 1600 Normal Roadster includes independent rear suspension, which provides improved handling and ride quality by allowing each rear wheel to move independently over bumps. This design enhances traction during cornering and contributes to the sporty driving experience. While other cars of the era often utilized solid axles, Porsche's choice of independent suspension sets it apart, delivering superior performance characteristics.
Front and Rear Stabilizer Bars
The inclusion of front and rear stabilizer bars enhances the handling characteristics of the Porsche 356B 1600 Normal Roadster. These bars reduce body roll during cornering, improving stability and control, particularly in high-speed maneuvers. This performance feature sets the 356B apart from other sports cars of its era, showcasing Porsche's engineering prowess.
Dual Exhaust System
The dual exhaust system enhances the engine's performance by improving exhaust flow and reducing back pressure, which contributes to better acceleration and a sportier sound. This setup not only boosts the power output of the 1.6-liter Flat-4 engine but also gives the Porsche 356B 1600 Normal Roadster a distinctive auditory signature compared to single exhaust systems often found in competing models of the era.
Rear Deck Lid with Ventilation Grilles
The rear deck lid features ventilation grilles that allow for improved airflow and engine cooling. This design helps to dissipate heat more effectively, ensuring optimal engine performance during spirited driving. The inclusion of ventilation grilles distinguishes the 356B from other sports cars of the era, which may not prioritize engine cooling to the same extent, thus contributing to reliability and performance longevity.
Ventilated Rear Engine Compartment
The ventilated rear engine compartment of the Porsche 356B 1600 Normal Roadster is designed to enhance engine cooling and performance. This feature allows heat to dissipate more effectively, ensuring optimal engine operation during spirited driving. Compared to non-ventilated designs, this ventilation improves reliability and longevity, making it an essential characteristic for performance-oriented vehicles.
Single Exhaust Outlet
The Porsche 356B 1600 Normal Roadster features a single exhaust outlet, which provides a distinctive sound while ensuring optimal engine performance. This design helps reduce weight and complexity compared to dual exhaust systems, offering a more direct route for exhaust gases. The single exhaust outlet also contributes to the car's classic aesthetics, connecting its performance heritage with elegant simplicity.
Lightweight Aluminum Engine Cover
The lightweight aluminum engine cover in the 356B 1600 Normal Roadster contributes to reduced weight and improved performance. This design not only enhances the vehicle's overall efficiency but also aids in engine cooling. Compared to heavier materials, the aluminum cover ensures a balance between durability and weight savings, aligning with Porsche's philosophy of performance-oriented engineering.

Exterior

Convertible Soft Top
The 356B Roadster features a convertible soft top that can be easily deployed or stowed away, allowing for open-air driving. This feature enhances the car's appeal as a true sports car, providing a sense of freedom and connection with the road. The soft top is well-engineered for durability and ease of use, making it a practical option for various weather conditions.
Classic Porsche Styling
The design of the 356B Roadster reflects classic Porsche styling, with smooth lines and a distinctive silhouette. Its rounded front and rear fenders, along with the iconic Porsche emblem, contribute to an instantly recognizable and timeless aesthetic. Compared to other sports cars of the era, the 356B’s design emphasizes elegance and performance, making it a favorite among collectors.
Steel Body Construction
The 356B Roadster is built with a sturdy steel body construction, providing both strength and rigidity. This feature contributes to the vehicle's overall safety and durability, ensuring longevity through various driving conditions. Unlike some competitors that utilized lighter materials, the steel construction of the 356B adds a sense of robustness and classic automotive craftsmanship.
Chrome Bumpers with Overriders
The 356B features elegant chrome bumpers with overriders, adding a distinctive touch to its classic styling. These bumpers not only enhance aesthetics but also offer additional protection in minor collisions. Compared to the painted bumpers of many contemporaries, the chrome finish underscores the luxury and attention to detail characteristic of Porsche.
Front and Rear Chrome Trim
The chrome trim accents on both the front and rear of the Porsche 356B 1600 Normal Roadster enhance its classic aesthetic. This feature adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the car's exterior design, setting it apart from competitors that may have opted for more utilitarian finishes. The chrome detailing is part of Porsche's commitment to stylish design and attention to detail.
Fuchs Alloy Wheels
The Porsche 356B 1600 Normal Roadster features iconic Fuchs alloy wheels that enhance both performance and aesthetics. These lightweight wheels provide improved handling and reduced unsprung weight compared to standard steel wheels. Their distinctive design also contributes to the classic Porsche look, making them a desirable upgrade for enthusiasts.
Chrome Side Mirrors
The chrome side mirrors not only add to the aesthetic appeal of the Porsche 356B 1600 Normal Roadster but also offer improved visibility. Their positioning and design are optimized for aerodynamic efficiency and style, setting them apart from basic mirrors found on other vehicles.
Tonneau Cover
The optional tonneau cover provides a stylish and functional solution for protecting the interior of the roadster when the top is down. This cover helps shield the seats from UV damage and weather elements, making it a practical accessory for convertible owners.
Chrome Exhaust Tips
The chrome exhaust tips on the Porsche 356B 1600 Normal Roadster add a touch of elegance and sportiness to the car's rear design. They not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also symbolize the performance heritage of the brand. Unlike plain exhaust finishes found on some competitors, the chrome tips contribute to the vehicle's classic styling and attention to detail.
Rocker Panels with Chrome Trim
The rocker panels of the Porsche 356B 1600 Normal Roadster feature elegant chrome trim that enhances the vehicle's classic aesthetics while providing a touch of sophistication. This design element not only adds visual appeal but also helps protect the body from road debris and corrosion, setting it apart from competitors that may lack such detailing.
Rear Wheel Arch Extensions
The rear wheel arch extensions on the Porsche 356B 1600 Normal Roadster contribute to its sporty stance and aggressive look. These extensions not only enhance the vehicle's aerodynamics but also accommodate wider tires for improved grip and performance. Unlike many competitors, Porsche's attention to design details like these reflects a commitment to both aesthetics and functionality.
Undercoated Chassis
The undercoated chassis provides added protection against corrosion and road debris, extending the vehicle's lifespan and maintaining structural integrity. This feature is particularly important for a sports car that may be driven in various conditions. Compared to non-coated competitors, which may suffer from rust issues over time, the 356B's undercoated chassis represents a commitment to durability and long-term value.
Body Color-Matched Hardtop (Optional)
An optional body color-matched hardtop provides additional versatility to the Porsche 356B 1600 Normal Roadster. This feature enhances the car's aesthetics and offers protection from the elements, making it ideal for inclement weather. Unlike many competitors in the sports car segment, this hardtop option allows for a more refined look while maintaining the classic roadster appeal.
Chrome Tailpipes
The chrome tailpipes on the Porsche 356B 1600 Normal Roadster enhance its classic aesthetic, providing a polished look that complements the car's overall design. These tailpipes not only add a stylish touch but also improve exhaust flow, contributing to performance. Compared to competitors of the era, the use of chrome on tailpipes was a hallmark of premium sports car design, giving the 356B a distinctive appearance.
Body Color-Matched Bumpers
The body color-matched bumpers on the Porsche 356B 1600 Normal Roadster provide a seamless and elegant look, enhancing the vehicle's aesthetic appeal. This feature distinguishes the 356B from other models that featured chrome bumpers, contributing to its unique styling. The color-matching creates a cohesive design while maintaining the car's sporty character, reflecting the personalization options popular in the era.
Classic Porsche Emblems
The classic Porsche emblems on the 356B 1600 Normal Roadster are emblematic of the brand's storied heritage and attention to detail. These emblems are crafted with precision and add an element of authenticity and style to the vehicle's exterior. Unlike many contemporary models with simplified branding, the inclusion of these classic emblems pays homage to Porsche's rich history in automotive excellence.
Magnesium Alloy Wheels (Optional)
The optional magnesium alloy wheels contribute to reduced unsprung weight, enhancing performance and handling characteristics. These wheels not only improve the vehicle's agility but also provide a distinctive look that sets the 356B apart from its competitors. Compared to standard steel wheels, magnesium alloys offer superior strength-to-weight ratios, which is a hallmark of Porsche engineering.
Custom Color Options (Optional)
Porsche offered a range of custom color options for the 356B 1600 Normal Roadster, beyond the standard palette. This feature allows owners to personalize their vehicle to reflect their individual style, standing out in a sea of uniformity. This customization option is particularly appealing in the sports car market, where unique aesthetics can be a significant selling point.

Interior

Leather Upholstery (Optional)
Optional leather upholstery enhances the interior of the 356B 1600 Normal Roadster, providing a touch of luxury and comfort. This high-quality material is both durable and aesthetically pleasing, elevating the driving experience. While many sports cars of the time offered basic interiors, the option for leather seats in the 356B underscores Porsche's commitment to quality and refinement.
Wooden Steering Wheel
The 356B features a classic wooden steering wheel that not only offers a tactile and aesthetic appeal but also enhances the driving experience. Its design allows for a comfortable grip and precise steering input, making it enjoyable for spirited driving. This feature adds a vintage charm compared to modern sports cars, which often utilize synthetic materials.
Rear Bench Seat
The Porsche 356B 1600 Normal Roadster features a rear bench seat that provides additional seating for passengers. While not as spacious as modern cars, it offers a cozy area for occasional use. The seats are upholstered in durable materials, ensuring comfort during drives. This feature is somewhat unique for sports cars of that era, which often prioritized performance over passenger capacity.
Adjustable Front Seats
The adjustable front seats allow drivers and passengers to find their optimal seating position for comfort and support during drives. This feature contributes to the overall driving experience, as it accommodates various body types and preferences. In a sports car context, this adjustability is essential for ensuring a proper driving posture, particularly during spirited driving.
Adjustable Steering Column
The adjustable steering column allows drivers to customize their driving position for enhanced comfort and control. This feature is particularly beneficial for drivers of varying heights, enabling them to find their optimal position behind the wheel, thereby improving driving ergonomics compared to fixed steering columns in some competitors.
Aluminum Door Sills
The aluminum door sills not only add a touch of luxury to the Porsche 356B's interior but also provide durability against wear and tear. This feature enhances the car's overall aesthetic while protecting the door edges from scuffs. Compared to plastic sills found in many cars of the time, aluminum offers a robust and stylish alternative that reflects the quality of Porsche craftsmanship.
Rubber Floor Mats
The Porsche 356B 1600 Normal Roadster comes equipped with rubber floor mats that are designed for durability and easy cleaning. These mats help protect the interior carpets from dirt and moisture, making them particularly useful for a sports car that may be driven in variable weather conditions. Compared to other trims or competitors, these mats reflect Porsche's commitment to practicality without compromising style.
Body Color-Matched Interior Accents
This trim level includes body color-matched interior accents, enhancing the cohesive aesthetic of the vehicle. These accents are found on various interior components such as door panels and the dashboard, creating a visually appealing environment for the driver and passengers. This attention to detail sets the 356B apart from other models that may employ more generic interior finishes.
Vinyl Upholstery (Standard)
Standard vinyl upholstery in the Porsche 356B 1600 Normal Roadster offers a practical and durable seating solution. While leather upholstery is available as an option, the vinyl provides a classic look and is easier to maintain. This feature ensures that the interior remains stylish while being functional, catering to drivers who may prioritize utility alongside aesthetics.
Padded Dash with Non-Reflective Surface
The padded dashboard features a non-reflective surface, designed to reduce glare and enhance visibility for the driver. This thoughtful design element improves safety by minimizing distractions from sunlight or other light sources. Compared to other cars that may have glossy surfaces, the 356B provides a more driver-friendly cockpit experience, aligning with the focus on performance and safety.
Non-Adjustable Rear Seats
The rear seating area in the Porsche 356B 1600 Normal Roadster features non-adjustable seats designed for accommodating passengers or luggage. While not as versatile as adjustable rear seats found in some contemporary sports cars, the fixed nature of these seats contributes to the vehicle's lightweight construction and traditional sports car feel. This design choice emphasizes the roadster's purpose as a driver-focused vehicle.
Carpeted Floor Mats
The Porsche 356B 1600 Normal Roadster features carpeted floor mats that enhance interior comfort and aesthetics. These mats provide a layer of insulation from noise and heat while protecting the vehicle's flooring from wear and tear. Unlike basic rubber mats offered in some competitors, the carpeted option adds a touch of luxury and warmth to the interior environment.
Front and Rear Rubber Floor Mats
The front and rear rubber floor mats in the Porsche 356B 1600 Normal Roadster are designed to protect the vehicle's interior from dirt, debris, and moisture. Their durable material ensures easy cleaning and long-lasting use, making them practical for everyday driving. Unlike standard carpet mats found in some competitors, these rubber mats provide enhanced durability and are well-suited for a sports car environment.

Technology

Spartan Instrument Cluster
The instrument cluster in the 356B is designed with simplicity in mind, featuring clear analog gauges that provide essential driving information. While lacking the digital displays found in contemporary vehicles, this straightforward design emphasizes functionality and ease of use. The layout is driver-focused, offering quick visibility of speed, fuel level, and engine temperature.
Push-Button Starter
The 356B Roadster features a push-button starter, which adds a modern touch to its classic design. This convenient feature simplifies the starting process, allowing for a quick and easy ignition with just the push of a button. Compared to traditional key-start systems in many vehicles of the era, this advancement reflects Porsche's innovative approach to enhancing driver experience.
Tachometer
The tachometer in the 356B 1600 Normal Roadster provides real-time engine RPM readings, allowing the driver to monitor engine performance effectively. This feature is crucial for sports car enthusiasts who prefer to operate their vehicles at optimal RPMs. The instrument is simple yet effective, aligning with the overall minimalist design of the dashboard.
Full Instrumentation with Oil Temperature Gauge
This trim includes comprehensive instrumentation, featuring an oil temperature gauge that helps monitor engine health. This is especially useful for performance-focused driving, allowing drivers to keep track of engine temperatures, which is essential for maintaining optimal performance and preventing overheating.
Manual Fuel Gauge
The manual fuel gauge offers a straightforward way to monitor fuel levels without the complexity of electronic systems. This simple yet effective feature is characteristic of the 356B's minimalist approach, ensuring reliability compared to electronic gauges that can sometimes fail.
Manual Choke Control
The manual choke control allows the driver to adjust the engine's air-fuel mixture manually, aiding in cold starts. This feature is essential for tuning the engine's performance based on environmental conditions, especially in colder climates. Unlike automatic systems found in more modern vehicles, the manual choke provides a direct and engaging way to interact with the vehicle's performance, emphasizing the driver-focused experience characteristic of classic sports cars.

Safety

Front Disc Brakes
The 356B Roadster is equipped with front disc brakes, providing improved stopping power compared to drum brakes common in many cars of the era. This feature enhances safety by reducing stopping distances and improving overall braking performance. While some competitors still utilized drum brakes, the disc brake system in the 356B reflects advancements in automotive technology.
Dual Circuit Brake System
This advanced dual circuit brake system enhances safety by providing a backup hydraulic circuit in case of a failure in the primary brake circuit. This feature ensures effective braking performance under various conditions, making it a critical enhancement for driver confidence compared to single circuit systems commonly found in older vehicles.
Rearview Mirror with Day/Night Adjustment
The rearview mirror features a manual day/night adjustment mechanism that enhances driving safety by reducing glare from headlights of vehicles behind. This feature is essential in maintaining visibility during night driving, offering a clear view of the road without distractions. Compared to modern automatic dimming mirrors, this manual system requires a simple flick to adjust but is reliable and straightforward.
Ventilated Front Disc Brakes
The ventilated front disc brakes on the Porsche 356B enhance braking performance by dissipating heat more effectively than solid rotors. This feature helps maintain brake efficiency during spirited driving, reducing the risk of brake fade. Compared to competitors that utilized drum brakes, this system provides improved stopping power and responsiveness, which is crucial for a sports car.
Manual Seatbelts
The manual seatbelts in the Porsche 356B 1600 Normal Roadster provide basic safety features for occupants. While not as advanced as modern retractable systems, these seatbelts are straightforward and effective in keeping drivers and passengers secured during travel. This feature was standard in many vehicles of the era, but the quality of materials used in Porsche models offered a degree of reliability and comfort.
Dual Horns
This trim level features a dual horn system that provides a louder and more assertive sound than single horn systems found in many cars. The dual horns enhance the driver's ability to alert other road users, improving safety in busy driving conditions. This feature emphasizes the Porsche 356's sporty character while ensuring that it meets the demands of dynamic driving.
Bumper Guards
Bumper guards are an important safety feature on the Porsche 356B 1600 Normal Roadster, providing additional protection against minor impacts. These guards enhance the durability of the vehicle while maintaining its classic design. This feature is particularly beneficial in urban environments where parking and maneuvering in tight spaces can lead to accidental bumps.
Visibility Enhancing Headlights
The Porsche 356B 1600 Normal Roadster features visibility-enhancing headlights that provide superior illumination and a wider beam pattern compared to standard headlights. This is particularly important for nighttime driving, improving safety and confidence on the road. Compared to other sports cars of the same era, the 356B's headlights reflect Porsche's focus on performance and safety.
Fog Lights
Fog lights are designed to illuminate the road directly in front of the vehicle, providing enhanced visibility in poor weather conditions such as fog, rain, or snow. Positioned lower on the vehicle, these lights reduce glare and increase safety for the driver and others on the road. Compared to standard headlights, fog lights provide a wider and shorter beam pattern, making them particularly useful for navigating through challenging conditions.
Front and Rear Bumpers with Rubber Inserts
The front and rear bumpers are equipped with rubber inserts, designed to absorb minor impacts and reduce damage during low-speed collisions. This feature not only enhances the vehicle's safety profile but also helps maintain the aesthetic integrity of the classic design. Compared to other models lacking such insert technology, the 356B offers better protection while preserving its vintage charm.
Passenger Side Mirror (Optional)
The optional passenger side mirror enhances safety by providing improved visibility on the right side of the vehicle. This feature is particularly beneficial in tight driving situations or during lane changes. While some competitors may not offer this as an option, the addition of a passenger side mirror on the Porsche 356B 1600 Normal Roadster promotes greater driver confidence.
Front and Rear Rubber Bumpers
The front and rear rubber bumpers on the Porsche 356B 1600 Normal Roadster offer an additional layer of protection in low-speed collisions. This feature is designed to absorb impact energy, minimizing damage to the vehicle's bodywork. While not as robust as modern crumple zones, these bumpers were a significant safety advancement for their time, providing peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike.

Convenience

Spare Tire Compartment
The 356B includes a dedicated spare tire compartment, ensuring drivers are prepared for unexpected situations on the road. This feature enhances convenience and peace of mind during long drives or road trips, as it allows for easy access to the spare tire. Compared to some other sports cars, where spare storage can be limited, the thoughtful design in the 356B prioritizes practicality.
Manual Convertible Top Operation
The manual convertible top allows drivers to easily transition from closed to open-air driving. This feature enhances the driving experience, especially in pleasant weather, and embodies the spirit of classic roadsters. While some modern vehicles offer automatic systems, the manual operation of the 356B keeps the connection between driver and machine intact, reflecting the era's design philosophy.
Full-Sized Spare Tire
The inclusion of a full-sized spare tire in the Porsche 356B 1600 Normal Roadster ensures that drivers are well-prepared for unexpected flat tires. Unlike many modern cars that use a compact spare, this feature provides a standard spare that matches the vehicle's performance tires. This is particularly beneficial for road trips or longer journeys, enhancing the vehicle's practicality.
Manual Window Cranks
The 356B 1600 Normal Roadster features manual window cranks for raising and lowering the windows. While it may seem basic compared to modern electric windows, this design is lightweight and simple, aligning with the car's overall sporty character. It provides a direct mechanical connection to the windows, allowing for quick adjustments on the go.
Windshield Washer System
The windshield washer system provides added convenience and safety by ensuring clear visibility during inclement weather. This feature includes a reservoir and pump system that sprays washer fluid onto the windshield, enhancing driving safety compared to models without this capability.
Adjustable Rearview Mirror
The adjustable rearview mirror allows drivers to customize their field of view for optimal visibility. This feature is particularly beneficial in a roadster, where visibility can be limited. Compared to fixed mirrors found in some vehicles of the era, this adjustable mirror enhances driver convenience and safety by allowing quick adjustments while driving.
Rear Cargo Compartment
The rear cargo compartment provides additional storage space for personal items, making it practical for weekend drives or longer journeys. This feature is particularly useful for a roadster, as it allows for a functional balance between style and usability. In comparison to some sports cars that prioritize aesthetics over storage, the 356B's cargo space is a thoughtful addition for drivers.
Glove Compartment with Lock
The Porsche 356B 1600 Normal Roadster includes a glove compartment with a locking mechanism, offering secure storage for personal items and documents. This feature provides peace of mind, especially for drivers who may leave valuables in the vehicle. In comparison to competitors, this thoughtful design reflects Porsche's focus on combining performance with everyday usability.
Manual Windshield Wipers
The Porsche 356B 1600 Normal Roadster is equipped with manual windshield wipers, allowing the driver to control the wiper speed and operation directly. This feature provides a straightforward and reliable solution for maintaining visibility in adverse weather conditions. Compared to more modern vehicles with automatic wipers, the manual system offers simplicity and reliability, in line with the classic design philosophy of the 356B.
Manual Headlight Adjustment
The manual headlight adjustment feature allows drivers to easily change the angle of the headlights to optimize visibility based on load and driving conditions. This simple yet effective feature enhances night driving safety, particularly in varying passenger and cargo configurations. Unlike automatic systems in modern cars, this manual option retains the classic feel of the 356B while providing essential functionality.

Comfort

Heat Exchanger System
The Heat Exchanger System in the Porsche 356B provides effective cabin heating, ensuring comfort during cooler driving conditions. This feature utilizes exhaust heat to warm the interior, which is particularly beneficial for open-top roadsters. While many competitors offer basic heating solutions, the efficient design of the 356B’s system showcases Porsche's commitment to driver comfort without compromising performance.
Wind Deflector
The wind deflector is designed to reduce wind turbulence in the cabin when driving with the convertible top down. It enhances the driving experience by minimizing drafts and noise, making it more comfortable during spirited drives. While not standard on all trims, it was an optional feature that added to the Roadster's appeal, especially for those who enjoyed open-air driving.
Heating and Ventilation System
The heating and ventilation system in the Porsche 356B 1600 Normal Roadster allows for a comfortable driving experience across various weather conditions. This system provides adequate heating during colder months and effective ventilation on warmer days, ensuring driver and passenger comfort. Compared to other sports cars, this feature highlights the 356B's balance of sportiness and everyday usability.
Heated Rear Window (Optional)
The optional heated rear window in the Porsche 356B 1600 Normal Roadster aids visibility during cold weather by quickly clearing frost or condensation. This feature enhances comfort for both the driver and passengers, ensuring a clear view at all times. While not standard in all trims, its availability adds a layer of convenience that is appreciated during winter months, differentiating it from other sports cars of the era.
Factory Installed Sound Dampening Material
The Porsche 356B 1600 Normal Roadster features factory-installed sound dampening material, which reduces cabin noise from the engine and road. This enhances driving comfort, allowing occupants to enjoy conversations or music without excessive background noise. Compared to other sports cars of its era, this feature emphasizes Porsche's commitment to a refined driving experience.
Adjustable Headrests (Optional)
Optional adjustable headrests provide additional comfort and support for the driver and front passenger. This feature allows occupants to customize their seating position for better ergonomics during longer drives. While many competitors offered fixed headrests, Porsche's approach focuses on enhancing comfort without compromising the classic design.

Entertainment

Single Speaker Audio System
The Porsche 356B 1600 Normal Roadster comes equipped with a single speaker audio system, providing basic sound functionality for occupants. While not designed for high-fidelity audio, this system allows for music playback during drives, enhancing the overall driving experience. Compared to modern multi-speaker systems, this feature stays true to the minimalist philosophy of the 356B, focusing on driving enjoyment over technological complexity.

Porsche 356B

Porsche 356B 1600 Normal Roadster

Porsche
$4,000.00

MSRP when new

Key Specifications

Engine

1582.0L 4cyl (Inline-4)

Power

75 hp

Transmission

4-speed Manual

Drivetrain

Rear-Wheel Drive

Fuel Economy

Combined
25 MPG
City
22 MPG
Highway
30 MPG

Generation

Generation

Porsche 356B 1600 Normal Roadster

Production Years

1958-1963

Market value data coming soon