Meet "Silvie": Mike & Susan Thies' 1962 Porsche 356 B Cabriolet

  • 1725 cc Flat-Four Boxer Engine
  • Dual Carburetor, Air Cooled
  • Estimated 125 Horsepower
  • Curb Weight of 1933 pounds
  • Four Speed Manual Transaxle
  • Independent Suspension


1. Last of the Early Porsche Lineage

The 356 B (produced 1960–1963) sits at the heart of the original 356 model line that established Porsche as a performance marque. The 1962 model year falls within the T6 body generation, which brought significant refinements, including twin engine grilles, an external fuel filler on the front fender, and a larger rear window.


2. Desirable Open-Top Body Style

The Cabriolet variant is among the most collectible body styles. Unlike the Speedster or Roadster, which were more stripped-down and sport-focused, the Cabriolet retained roll-up windows and was trimmed with greater comfort and weather protection, making it a luxurious, open-air grand tourer with classic Porsche charm.


3. Coachbuilt Quality and Timeless Design

Each 356 B Cabriolet was hand-assembled, and many were built by Reutter (later integrated into Porsche). These cars are praised for their clean lines, impeccable proportions, and lightweight construction, giving them a combination of elegance and precision that defines early Porsche design.


4. Performance and Engineering

While not fast by modern standards, the 1962 356 B featured a 1600cc flat-four engine, producing between 60–75 horsepower (Silvie's engine is a bored out 1725cc estiamted horepower at 125). With its light curb weight and precise handling, the car delivered an engaging, balanced driving experience—an essential piece of the Porsche DNA.


5. Increasing Collectibility

The 1962 Cabriolet combines usability, rarity, and collector appeal. Only about 2500 cabriolet cars were made in 1962. Its legacy as a refined yet pure Porsche makes it a center jewel in any classic collection.

Views: 32

Comment

You need to be a member of SOUTH EAST USA WHEELS EVENTS-Car and Motorcycle Events Calendar to add comments!

Join SOUTH EAST USA WHEELS EVENTS-Car and Motorcycle Events Calendar

Blog Posts

A Bite of History: 1967 Mercedes-Benz 250SL

A Bite of History: by Mike Thies

1967 Mercedes-Benz 250SL

Introduced in late 1966 for a short, single-year production run, the 1967 Mercedes-Benz 250SL holds a special place in the “Pagoda” lineage (W113 series) as the rarest variant, with only about 5,196 units built. Positioned between the earlier 230SL and the later 280SL, the 250SL…

Continue

Posted by Michael Thies on August 14, 2025 at 7:30pm

A Bite of History: American Bantam “Woody” Station Wagon by Mike Thies

A Bite of History:  by Mike Thies

American Bantam “Woody” Station Wagon

The American Bantam Car Company was a small but innovative automaker based in Butler, Pennsylvania. Originally established as American Austin in the 1920s to produce miniature cars under license from the British Austin Motor Company, the firm reorganized…

Continue

Posted by Michael Thies on August 2, 2025 at 8:00pm — 1 Comment

A Bite of History: 1958 Porsche 356 Speedster

A Bite of History: by Mike Thies

1958 Porsche 356 Speedster

The 1958 Porsche 356 Speedster marks the swan song of one of Porsche’s most iconic and minimalist models. Originally introduced in 1954 at the urging of U.S. importer Max Hoffman, the Speedster was designed to be a low cost, lightweight, stripped-down entry sports car that could double as a weekend racer, especially for the California sports car scene. With its low windshield,…

Continue

Posted by Michael Thies on July 14, 2025 at 5:22pm

A Bite of History: 1948 Rover P3 Saloon

A Bite of History: by Mike Thies

1948 Rover P3 Saloon

The 1948 Rover P3 Saloon marked a pivotal moment in the evolution of British motoring. Introduced in the immediate aftermath of World War II, the P3 was a bridge between prewar craftsmanship and the modern engineering ethos that would come to define Rover’s future. Although its styling retained many traditional elements, including an upright grille, separate fenders, and rear-hinged front…

Continue

Posted by Michael Thies on July 14, 2025 at 8:39am

© 2025   Created by Global Wheels Events.   Powered by

Badges  |  Report an Issue  |  Terms of Service