Porsche 356 A
The Porsche 356A was produced from 1955 to 1959, marking the first major update to the original Porsche 356 Pre-A. It introduced a curved windshield, a new chassis designation (T1 and T2 updates), and mechanical improvements.
Timeline of Porsche 356A Models (1955–1959)
1955: Introduction of the 356A (“T1”)
- Launched in September 1955 as a replacement for the 356 Pre-A.
- New internal designation: Type 1 (T1).
- Body Styles:
- Coupe (by Reutter)
- Cabriolet (full convertible, by Reutter)
- Speedster (minimalist, lightweight open-top model)
- Hardtop Coupe (also called the “European” model)
- Key Mechanical Changes:
- New 1.6L flat-four engine introduced.
- Four engine options available:
- 356 A 1300 (1.3L, 44 hp)
- 356 A 1300 Super (1.3L, 60 hp)
- 356 A 1600 (1.6L, 60 hp)
- 356 A 1600 Super (1.6L, 75 hp)
- Curved windshield replaced the split/bent-glass design of Pre-A.
- Stronger transaxle with improved synchromesh.
1956: Refinements & Carrera Debut
- Introduction of the 356A 1500 GS Carrera:
- First Porsche road car with the “Carrera” name.
- 1.5L DOHC engine producing 100 hp.
- Dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) for better high-rev performance.
- The Speedster gains popularity, especially in the U.S.
1957: Mid-Cycle Refresh – “T2”
- New chassis designation: Type 2 (T2).
- Changes from T1 to T2:
- Revised rear bodywork (exhaust exits moved from bumper guards to under the car).
- Stronger transaxle with new shift linkage.
- New front and rear suspension adjustments for improved ride.
- Revised door handles and interior tweaks.
- New engine lineup:
- 356 A 1600 (60 hp)
- 356 A 1600 Super (75 hp)
- 356 A 1500 GS Carrera (100 hp)
- 356 A 1500 GS Carrera GT (110 hp)
1958: End of the Speedster, Birth of the Convertible D
- The 356A Speedster is discontinued due to declining demand.
- Replaced by the 356A Convertible D:
- Designed by Drauz (hence the “D”).
- More comfortable than the Speedster, with a taller windshield and roll-up windows.
- Retained the sporty character but added more convenience.
1959: Final Year of the 356A
- Production of the 356A ends in mid-1959.
- Prepares for the launch of the 356B (T5) in September 1959.
Porsche 356A Timeline Summary (1955–1959)
| Year | Key Model Variants | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1955 | 356A (T1) Coupe, Cabriolet, Speedster | Curved windshield, 1.3L & 1.6L engines |
| 1956 | 356A 1500 GS Carrera | First Carrera model, DOHC engine |
| 1957 | 356A (T2) | Revised exhaust, stronger transaxle, Carrera GT introduced |
| 1958 | 356A Convertible D | Speedster replaced with more comfortable model |
| 1959 | 356A Final Production | Transition to 356B |
The 356A was a significant step in Porsche’s evolution, refining the original 356 while laying the groundwork for the Porsche 356B and later the Porsche 911.