Well I'm not familiar with 356's but have always wanted a vintage model to poke around town in and just enjoy driving without always flooring the pedal as I do in my 987S.

Can anyone provide any insight into what one might be getting into if such a vehicle is purchased? The car in question is listed here:

http://oklahomacity.craigslist.org/cto/2317751483.html

And yes I know without seeing/driving it in person it's hard to make sound judgement on it but any info on the 356 in general is a start for me. I'd be happy to keep it as a weekly driver until I could afford to restore it when I'm old and retired (I'm only 29).

Thanks in advance!
Harry

 

I saw that ad last night. There is not enough info to make any sort of assessment. If you know someone who is more than familiar with 356s you should take them along. The description does say there is rust. The price isn't too bad for a driver. You would have to assess its mechanical condition as a driver. The rust (floors, longitudinals, closing panels, battery box, etc) can be fixed later if not too severe. Rust to suspension mounts obviously would be a bigger problem. Previous rust or accident repairs are nice to know about too. It really depends on what you want and what you would be happy with.

 

"has rust in typical areas"

if you were my son, & unless you were an accomplished body man & welder, &/or rich...
I'd say no-way, kiddo.

 

Some say they are almost all rusty. Gaping holes may not be visible but it is there. Some cars have been repaired (partially, properly, poorly) and some not. At least that is the conclusion I am coming too.

 

I would suggest you check out this site:

http://porsche356registry.org/

There are a bunch of 356's listed under classifieds.

 

Where are you located? If you are close to Oklahoma and can check it out (with some experienced help) then it may be worth a look. If you are far away, I'd just run. (From your signature it seems you're in Europe??)

As noted, there is a big question re rust. Could be something you could deal with later, but it could also be a big safety issue now and expensive to fix. Lots of other issues too that only an expert could sort out. A quality engine rebuild is not cheap. Brake system? Clutch / trans?

When you say weekly driver, do you mean this is a car you would rely on regularly? 356s can be pretty reliable BUT only if they are really well sorted out. Keep in mind they are ~50 year old cars and there will always be things that need need tinkerin' or fixin'.

I am not trying to dissuade you from getting a 356, I have one and love it. But you do need to be careful.

The 356 Registry is *THE* main source of information for 356s, definitely recommend you check out its site, tech articles and forum.