This 1958 Porsche Speedster is available at European Collectibles for $104,950 and is an attractive and solid example with worthwhile performance upgrades. It has 356C disc brakes and a 95hp 912 engine, making it a superior performer to the hottest standard Speedster, the 75hp 1600 Super (besides the ultra rare and expensive Carrera four-cam). Since it is non-matching and non-original, it is also priced at considerably less than a matching example would be, making it a perfect example for someone looking to drive and enjoy a superior performing car for less money.
The car appears to be in very nice cosmetic condition, and the black paint will be very revealing if there are any issues to the body. The ride height is a little off; the front is too high compared to the back.
The car has a mostly stock appearance, though the 365C wheels necessitated by the disc brakes are a giveaway that something different is going on with the car. Given the performance upgrades, running the car without hubcaps would be a viable option that would add an aggressive aesthetic that matches the capability of the car. The exhaust is a groovy looking Bursch unit rather than the neater stock arrangement that exits through the bumper over riders. At the front, there are what appear to be Marchal auxiliary lamps, which look nice but would not have been a regular fitment to this car (not unlike the disc brakes and 912 engine).
The interior has a stock appearance and has been restored with the corduroy inserts, which is a nice nod to the fact that these were budget models when new. Because of their current values, they often are restored with leather, but the corduroy preserves the original intent behind the car nicely. The correct square weave carpets are another nice touch.
The engine compartment is tidy and clean, and looks right to the untrained eye. This car would be a nice example to use and enjoy without telling anyone that it drives better and cost less than a show level matching numbers restored car. The underside and trunk have a freshness that hints at the possibility of recent work, and it is worth investigating that the work was completed properly if it was done since these cars can be structurally vulnerable. The car is also a great basis for more performance upgrades in the GT/Outlaw style since it has more oomph than normal to back it up.
