1961 Porsche 356 B Super 90 Roadster
Water, the globally recognized Porsche enthusiast event, on 26 April in Costa Mesa, California. This auction is a must-attend and will feature a selection of rare and outstanding examples from the renowned brand, including this 1961 Porsche 356B Super 90 Roadster
valued at $250,000-$280,000.The 356B Roadster evolved from famed Speedsters and Convertible Ds as the sporting open topped 356. The Speedsters were spartan while the Roadsters became nearly as civilized and luxurious as Cabriolets with a higher windshield and roll-up side windows. The Roadster’s first body was built by Drauz who also produced the Convertible D, before being handed over to D’Ieteren Freres S.A. in Brussels, Belgium. The Roadster was only available between 1960 and 1962. A total of 2,900, 356 Roadsters, with the highest-powered Super 90 variant were built. They are now a rare sight. Robert D. Engel was a Californian serviceman stationed in Kaiserslautern Germany who purchased the powerful high-compression Super 90 Engine rated at 90 horsepower. The car also came with an interesting set of options, including an ashtray and reclining seat, rear cushion, antenna, windshield FM suppressor, cigar lighter, sunvisor with makeup mirror, two loudspeakers, and an antenna with an FM suppressor. The car was sold as an example for the U.S. market by Georg Rittersbacher, a dealership in Kaiserslautern. The Kardex records that they serviced the car while it was under warranty until September 1962.The Super 90 lived for most of its life in California, where it had been restored previously some 25+years ago. The Super 90 was restored in California, where it lived for most of its life. It had been previously restored some 25+ years ago. The Super 90 engine was given a complete overhaul. The engine’s health was verified most recently in October 2024 with a compression check that revealed readings of 127-134 psi across all cylinders. Most recently, in October 2024, the engine’s health was verified with a compression check that revealed readings of 127-134 psi across all cylinders.
Rarely seen today, this charming Super 90 Roadster offers a compelling case to enjoy the sporting nature of the earlier 356 Speedster with the added benefit of refined luxury as well as considerably more power. This 356 comes with its Kardex and tool roll. It also includes the owner’s guide with Roadster Supplement, single grille engine covers, and service invoices. It is almost impossible to find one in this condition. The factory Super 90 Roadster retains its original drivetrain, which is very important. It is surely a unicorn among 356s.
To view more thrilling cars on offer at Broad Arrow’s Porsche Air|Water Auction, please visit their website at broadarrowauctions.com and be sure to register to bid for this exciting must-attend event.
