The 1955 Porsche 356 Continental is a rare and distinctive variant of Porsche’s legendary 356 sports car, marking a unique chapter in the brand's history. This model was a result of Porsche's early efforts to break into the lucrative North American market, with the "Continental" name briefly added to signify exclusivity and appeal to American buyers.
Continental production lasted less than a year due to a cease-and-desist letter from Ford. Approximately 500 were built with only 95 remaining examples currently known.
Background
- Manufacturer: Porsche
- Model Year: 1955
- Model: 356 Continental
- Significance: The "Continental" badge was used exclusively on Porsche 356 export models bound for the U.S. market. It was discontinued after 1955 due to a trademark dispute with Ford, making these cars particularly rare and collectible.
Specifications
- Engine:
- Type: 1.5-liter (1,488 cc) flat-four, air-cooled.
- Output: Approximately 55 horsepower (base) or up to 70 horsepower in "Super" versions.
- Induction: Twin Solex carburetors provided efficient fuel delivery.
- Transmission: 4-speed manual gearbox with synchromesh on all forward gears.
- Chassis: Tubular steel platform with lightweight steel body panels.
- Suspension:
- Front: Torsion bars with trailing arms.
- Rear: Swing axle with torsion bars.
- Brakes: Drum brakes on all four wheels.
Design and Features
- Exterior:
- The 356 Continental shared the sleek, aerodynamic body style of the standard 356 but was distinguished by the "Continental" script on the front fenders.
- Offered in both coupe and cabriolet forms, its minimalist yet elegant design was a hallmark of Ferdinand Porsche’s engineering philosophy.
- Chrome accents, teardrop headlights, and a split or single-piece curved windshield added to its iconic appearance.
- The car featured lightweight construction, which contributed to its performance.
- Interior:
- The cabin was functional and driver-focused, with high-quality materials such as leather or vinyl upholstery and a simple yet stylish dashboard layout.
- Instrumentation included a speedometer, tachometer, and oil temperature gauge, all housed within a central binnacle.
- Minimalist comfort features, reflecting the car’s lightweight, sporty ethos.
Performance
- Top Speed: Approximately 90–100 mph, depending on engine configuration.
- Acceleration: 0–60 mph in around 13 seconds for base models; faster for "Super" variants.
- Driving Experience: The rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout provided excellent traction, while its lightweight construction made it nimble and engaging to drive.
Legacy
- Rarity: The 1955 Porsche 356 Continental is one of the rarest and most sought-after 356 variants due to its limited production and the brief use of the "Continental" name.
- Collector Appeal: Its historical significance, combined with Porsche's enduring reputation for quality and performance, makes the Continental a prized possession among enthusiasts and collectors.
- Trademark Dispute: The "Continental" name was dropped after Ford claimed it infringed on their Lincoln Continental trademark. Future U.S.-bound models were labeled as simply the "356."
Summary
The 1955 Porsche 356 Continental is a remarkable blend of style, performance, and exclusivity. As a short-lived variant with unique branding and a rich backstory, it occupies a special place in Porsche's storied history. Whether on display at concours events or enjoyed on scenic drives, the Continental remains a testament to Porsche's early success in the global sports car market.
Taken at the Hilton Head Concours
You may purchase a print of the 1955 Porsche 356 Continental in our dElegance 2024 online gallery.
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