‘Galpinized’ 356 Speedster Offers View of What Could Have Been
Built for 2021 Porsche Classic Restoration Challenge, 356 Speedster raced by second owner for 50 years, imported by Max Hoffman.
The 356 placed Porsche on the map as an automaker on the come-up. From 1948 to 1965, the little machine that could, did, mainly through engineering advances along the way. It was such a success, it lasted through its replacement’s first model year; said replacement was the iconic 911.
Thus, it only makes since another icon would put its stamp upon the 356. Los Angeles’s own Galpin Motors, via its Porsche Santa Clarita dealership, built a 1955 356 Speedster for the 2021 Porsche Classic Restoration Challenge. The result? A what-could-have-been that, thankfully, is better late than never.
This 356 Speedster originally landed in New York via famed importer Max Hoffman. After spending a few years with its first owner, the Porsche’s second owner would modify the machine for racing. For the next 50 years, that was all it did.
Then, Galpin stepped in. The Porsche Classic Restoration Challenge involves 40 U.S. dealerships, all tasked with obtaining a car the company says “is due for some expert technical attention to ensure many more years of driving pleasure.” Galpin President and COO Beau Boeckmann wanted his group’s new-to-them 356 to not only undergo an extensive restoration, but to resemble what a “Galpinized” 356 would’ve looked like when new.
Galpin took a two-pronged approach in building the 356 Speedster to how it might’ve been under their care back in the day. For the body and paint, Galpin Auto Sports’ Dave Shuten led the charge. PPG Blue-Green with six layers of clearcoat lays upon a body with shaved rockers and rear reflectors, a louvered engine cover, and brilliantly reworked chrome bumpers. House of Kolor Gold Halibrand knock-offs and stock seats draped in plaid and red leather tie it all together.
Under the gleaming body, Porsche Santa Clarita’s Nicolas Briseno worked on bringing the mechanicals in order. After decades on the track, the 356 Speedster now features a 1600SC flat-four, all shiny and chrome. A 519 transaxle connects the new engine to the road.
The fate of the 356 Speedster now rests with Porsche Cars North America. Some time before the end of the month, the branch will select its top three, one from each region (East, South-Central and West). Then, in September, a panel will choose the overall winner. May this “Galpinized” Porsche not only take the West, but the crown.
Photos: Tyler Clemmensen
Join the Rennlist forums!
