2026 |
Amelia Island Auctions1965 Porsche 356 C Cabriolet
From The Tommy Trabue Collection
Estimate
$150,000 - $200,000| Without Reserve
Chassis
161704
Engine
717220
Car Highlights
Finished in Rare Dolphin Grey over Blue Upholstery
Benefits from Older Restoration
One of Just 588 Porsche 356 C Cabriolets Built for the 1965 Model Year
Retains Matching-Numbers Engine per Kardex
An Iconic Porsche Convertible
Technical Specs
1,582 CC Type 616/15 OHV Flat 4-Cylinder Engine
Twin Zenith 32 NDIX Carburetors
75 BHP at 5,200 RPM
4-Speed Manual Transaxle
4-Wheel Hydraulic Disc Brakes
4-Wheel Independent Suspension with Torsion Bars
Introduced in 1948, the 356 was Porsche’s first production automobile, establishing the marque’s rear-engine sports car formula. The final evolution, the 356 C, debuted at the 1963 Frankfurt Motor Show and represented the most developed version of the model.
Subtle visual updates included a squared-off front hood and larger windows, while the most significant change was mechanical: standard four-wheel ATE disc brakes, greatly improving stopping power and durability. A 356 C Cabriolet paired these advancements with a fully lined folding soft top and more standard comfort features.
One of just 588 built for the 1965 model year, this Cabriolet was finished by the factory in uncommon Dolphin Grey (6410), as confirmed by its Kardex, and which is among the lightest hues in the Porsche palette, appearing almost as a cool white with a subtle blue-gray cast. Equipped with its matching-numbers Type 616/15 75 hp engine, it is presented today with blue upholstery, a soft top, Blaupunkt push-button radio, and ventilated chrome wheels.
Delivered new to Porsche Cars Southwest, documentation on file indicates ownership by Minnesota resident Roy Eugene Ahern during the 1990s. Acquired by Tommy Trabue circa 2015 and reported to have benefited from an older restoration, this 356 C Cabriolet offers the enduring appeal of open-top motoring paired with an especially attractive and understated color combination.


