Here’s a detailed historical timeline of the Porsche 356B (1959–1963), along with a breakdown of the different models, technical details, and specifications:

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Timeline & History of the Porsche 356B

1959 – Introduction of the 356B (T5 body style)

• Replaced the Porsche 356A in late 1959 (as a 1960 model).
• Marked by a significant styling update:
  • Higher front and rear bumpers with heavier bumper guards.
  • Larger headlights positioned higher.
  • Re-contoured front fenders and squared-off hood edge.
  • New steering wheel and updated interior trim.
• Porsche wanted to keep the 356 competitive against stronger rivals, particularly in the U.S. market.

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1960–1961 – 356B T5 Models

• Body styles: Coupe, Cabriolet, Roadster, Notchback Coupe.
• Roadster replaced the Convertible D (lighter and sportier).
• Technical refinements over the 356A but kept the rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout.

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1962 – 356B T6 Body Update

• Major redesign while retaining 356 identity:
  • Larger windshield.
  • Twin engine lid grilles (instead of one).
  • Larger rear window.
  • Front hood now squared at the bottom.
  • Fuel filler outside on the right fender (previously inside the trunk).
• Notchback offered briefly but discontinued due to low demand.

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1963 – Final year of 356B

• Transition period before the launch of the 356C in 1964.
• T6 body carried over until the end.

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Porsche 356B Models & Technical Specifications

Engines Available (depending on model and year)

• 356B 1600 (Type 616/1)
  • 1.6L flat-four, 1582 cc
  • 60 hp @ 4500 rpm
  • Top speed ~ 160 km/h (100 mph)
• 356B 1600 Super (Type 616/2)
  • 1.6L flat-four, 1582 cc
  • 75 hp @ 5000 rpm
  • Top speed ~ 175 km/h (109 mph)
• 356B 1600 Super 90 (Type 616/7)
  • 1.6L flat-four, 1582 cc
  • 90 hp @ 5500 rpm
  • High-compression pistons, stronger crankshaft
  • Top speed ~ 185 km/h (115 mph)
• 356B Carrera 2 (Type 587/1)
  • 2.0L DOHC flat-four, 1966 cc
  • 130 hp @ 6200 rpm
  • Derived from racing engines, exotic and rare
  • Top speed ~ 200 km/h (124 mph)

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356B T5 (1959–1961) Body Styles

• Coupe (Reutter or Karmann bodywork)
• Cabriolet (convertible with padded top and roll-up windows)
• Roadster (lighter, sportier, open car with minimal weather protection)
• Notchback Coupe (essentially a Cabriolet with a welded steel roof, made in very limited numbers)

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356B T6 (1962–1963) Body Styles

• Coupe (Reutter or Karmann)
• Cabriolet
• Roadster (rare, phased out after 1962)
• Carrera 2 offered in Coupe and Cabriolet form

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Technical Highlights

• Chassis: Steel monocoque, rear-engine layout.
• Transmission: 4-speed manual, synchronized (from 1960 onwards).
• Suspension: Independent front (torsion bars & trailing arms), swing axle rear.
• Brakes: Drum brakes all around (356C would later bring disc brakes).
• Weight: ~850–900 kg (depending on body style).
• Production:
  • Total Porsche 356B built: ~30,963 units (1960–1963).

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Engine Comparison Chart

Porsche 356B Engine Variant Specifications

Engine Variant	Displacement (cc)	Horsepower (hp)	Top Speed (km/h)	Compression Ratio	Carburetion	Weight (kg)	Years Available
1600	1582	60	160	7.5:1	2× Solex 32 PBIC	850	1959–63
1600 Super	1582	75	175	8.5:1	2× Solex 32 PBIC	850	1959–63
1600 Super 90	1582	90	185	9.0:1	2× Solex 40 PII-4	860	1960–63
Carrera 2	1966	130	200	9.5:1