Dean Jeffries bought this 1956 Porsche 356A Carrera and radically altered the exterior appearance to launch his career as a custom car builder. He remove the bumpers, extended the nose and added custom features such as frenched headlights, roof vents, tail lights and rear scoop grill. It was featured in many magazines of the era including an appearance on the cover of Rod & Custom. It was sold to Albert Nussbaum in early 1962. Nussbaum and his partner Bobby Wilcoxson, were bank robbers and on the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted List. Wilcoxson bought the Aztek, A George Barris built custom 1955 Chevrolet now owned by Barry Mazza. It is also credited with inspiring Gary Kempton to crete his first “Outlaw” 356 and start the whole Porsche 356 Outlaw movement.
Overview
- Model: Porsche 356A Carrera
- Year: 1956
- Engine: 1.5 L or 1.6 L Four-Cam Four-Cylinder (Type 547)
- Design: Porsche
Historical Significance
- Performance Focus: The Carrera variant of the Porsche 356A was created to deliver higher performance and better handling, targeting racing enthusiasts and serious drivers.
- Innovation: The Carrera was among the first Porsches to use the complex and advanced four-cam engine developed by Ernst Fuhrmann, distinguishing it from the standard 356 models.
Design and Specifications
- Engine: The 356A Carrera featured the Type 547 engine, also known as the "Fuhrmann" engine. This four-cam, four-cylinder engine was capable of producing between 100 and 110 horsepower, depending on the configuration (1500GS or 1600GS).
- Transmission: 4-speed manual gearbox.
- Chassis: The car utilized a lightweight yet sturdy chassis, contributing to its nimble handling and performance on both road and track.
- Suspension: Independent suspension with torsion bars provided a smooth and controlled ride.
- Brakes: Drum brakes were standard, providing adequate stopping power for the time.
Design Features
- Body: The 356A Carrera maintained the classic, curvaceous body lines of the standard 356, with subtle modifications for improved aerodynamics and performance. It was available in coupe, cabriolet, and speedster versions.
- Interior: The interior was relatively spartan compared to modern standards but offered a driver-focused layout with essential gauges and controls easily accessible.
Achievements and Legacy
- Racing Success: The 356A Carrera quickly proved its worth in motorsport, achieving success in various racing events, including the prestigious Mille Miglia and the Targa Florio.
- Collectibility: Today, the 1956 Porsche 356A Carrera is highly sought after by collectors due to its historical significance, limited production numbers, and racing pedigree.
- Innovation: The advanced engineering of the four-cam engine set the stage for future high-performance Porsches, influencing the design and development of engines in later models, including the iconic 911.
Legacy
- Influence on Future Models: The innovations and success of the 356A Carrera played a crucial role in establishing Porsche’s reputation for engineering excellence and performance, influencing future generations of Porsche sports cars.
- Cultural Impact: The 356A Carrera is celebrated not only for its performance but also for its timeless design, embodying the elegance and engineering prowess of mid-20th century Porsche.
Taken at the Amelia Concourse.
You may purchase a print of the 1956 Porsche 356A Carrera in our dElegance 2011 online gallery.
