This 1965 Porsche 356C/1600 SC Cabriolet is a highly desirable, top-specification model, featuring a 1,582 cc air-cooled flat-4 engine with twin Solex 40 PII carburetors, producing 95 hp at 5,200 rpm. It is paired with a 4-speed manual transaxle and boasts four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes. Chassis number 161043, this car is a complete numbers-matching example, with engine number 812151, confirmed by the accompanying Porsche Certificate of Authenticity and factory Kardex. Finished in its original factory-specified Champagne Yellow (6405) paint over black leather upholstery, this 356 was completed on August 27, 1964. Notably, it was equipped with factory options including trim strips, ventilated chrome wheels, and Continental tires.
The 356C, introduced in 1963, featured significant mechanical upgrades, such as standard four-wheel disc brakes, 15-inch ventilated wheels, and suspension improvements for enhanced handling. The 1600 SC engine replaced the earlier Super 90 model, making it the most powerful pushrod engine in Porsche’s road cars at the time, capable of reaching nearly 120 mph. This car was first sold through Competition Motors in Culver City, California, to Ray Crandall of Los Angeles. Around 1969, it was acquired by Dr. Richard Antin of Beverly Hills, a Porsche Club member, and remained in his family’s care for 46 years. During this time, the car was well-preserved and maintained, as evidenced by the thorough & extensive registration, insurance, and Porsche Club/356 Registry records dating from 1972 to 2006.
In addition to its meticulous mechanical upkeep, the car comes with a rich dossier of original documents and accessories, including a rare original toolkit, spare tire/wheel, jack, owner’s manual, and tonneau cover. The body remains straight with excellent panel gaps, retaining its factory-applied undercoating. The Porsche’s provenance is thoroughly documented, with service invoices and registration papers spanning decades. This remarkably complete and honest 1965 Porsche 356C/1600 SC Cabriolet is not only a wonderful example of Porsche’s final 356 model but also an ideal candidate for Porsche Club events, rallies, or spirited touring. 356 enthusiasts will find a difficult time sourcing another example as original, yet turn key example as this.
