Classic Porsches to the 'four' at Shannons Summer Sale

MELBOURNE – Nov 5, 2012: Two classic Porsches bookending the marque’s early four cylinder era will be crossing the block at Shannons Melbourne Summer Classic Auction on Monday November 26.

High on every Porsche collector’s list will be the low mileage 1953 356 Bent Screen ‘Pre A’ Coupe that has been the subject of a complete restoration.

Finished in black with a beige corduroy interior, this 356 was originally sold new in Texas and as a result when it was imported some years ago it was largely rust-free.

A sympathetic restoration was nevertheless carried out, with the original floors and body panels retained, as they were still in solid condition.

The car’s 1488cc engine was rebuilt to 70HP ‘1500 Super’ spec, but both the drum brakes and four-speed gearbox showed little sign of wear, demonstrating that this 356 was a low-mileage, well-cared for example.

After being professionally converted to right hand drive, the cabin was treated to new interior trim mirroring the original pattern and fabric, while the car’s factory option fuel gauge and Telefunken ID53 radio were both retained, along with the its skinny 16-inch wheels.

Presented in excellent, useable condition, Shannons expect this beautiful and now rare early 356 to attract bids in the $95,000-$110,000 range.

For four cylinder Porsche enthusiasts with an eye for the 911’s distinctive outline, Shannons have the affordable and perfect answer: a 1966 model Porsche 912.

Introduced in 1965, the 912 was a cheaper and more fuel efficient alternative to the six-cylinder 911 that went on sale a year earlier and actually outsold the 911 in 1966 when the car being auctioned was delivered new in Munich.

The matching numbers left hand drive car was originally finished in Polo Red, but was later resprayed in its current Tangerine. However its 1582cc engine has been rebuilt to its original 90HP specification – just 40HP less than the 95kg heavier early six-cylinder 911 – ensuring sporting performance.

With the 50th anniversary of the first public showing of the 911 being celebrated in 2013, the 912 is emerging from the shadow of its more glamorous stablemate and values are rising.

With a guiding range of $14,000-$18,000, this 912 in ready-to-enjoy or ready-to-restore condition would make the perfect entree to Porsche ownership for an enthusiast of the marque.

The two Porsches are amongst 43 rare and unusual vehicles in the auction, including seven with no reserve.

The auction will also see a number of classic motorcycles – including two very desirable Ducatis – go under the hammer, along with a range of Heritage black and white numberplates, headed by the Victorian triple-digit ‘385’.