Porsche - 356 (1956)

Step into the golden age of motoring with a Porsche 356, the iconic sports car that carried its first flight with the 1956 model marked by sharp lines and a heart‑thumping engine. New enthusiasts often ask, “What is a 1956 Porsche 356 worth?” The answer hinges less on a single sticker price and more on a blend of rarity, condition, provenance, and market demand. Below you’ll find everything you need to gauge the used Porsche 356 price, understand its earnings dynamics, and compare it to contemporary classics.

• Model Year: 1956 (Classic Roadster or Speedster variant)
• Engine: 1.4 L flat‑four, atmospheric, 44 hp (35 kW) – a hallmark of lightweight performance.
• Transmission: 3–speed manual, shaft drive.
• Fuel Type: Petrol.
• Dimensions: Length 3,594 mm, Width 1,335 mm, Height 1,265 mm, Wheelbase 2,070 mm.
• Weight: 795 kg (approximately 1,752 lb).
• Top Speed: 115 km/h (about 71 mph).
• 0‑60 km/h: 12–13 s, depending on condition.
• Suspension: Independent front, rigid rear; disc brakes as optional upgrade.
• Interior: Minimalist upholstery, wooden trim, 10‑seat bench.
• Notable Features: Chrome grille, door openings with removable panels, classic wire wheels.

While the Porsche 356 price is anchored by these fundamentals, the true cost emerges when you add real‑world variables. “Porsche 356 1956 price” queries typically start at the high‑$20,000 mark for well‑preserved examples and can soar into the mid‑$100,000 range for rare, expertly restored roadsters. Used Porsche 356 price reflects car condition, mileage (often negligible due to low usage), mileage of the original engine, and the number of chassis numbers that survive to date. As a rule, the market prefers cars that are fully documented, unmodified, and as close as possible to original factory specifications.

Depreciation and Value Retention

Despite being built over six decades ago, the Porsche 356 depreciation curve is flatter than most modern luxury cars. Classic collectors tend to treat the 356 as more of an asset than a depreciating tool. Still, early years see a notable drop:

• First year—15–20 % loss from the buying price, reflecting initial market acclimation.
• Years 2–5—average decline of 8–12 % annually, often offset by early restoration and resale resale tactics.
• Beyond year 10—values can plateau or even appreciate 10–15 % each year, especially if the vehicle attains “run‑in” mileage or is identified as a “limited edition” model.

Collectors should thus focus on a well‑invested restoration in the early lifecycle and maintain impeccable provenance documentation. That approach first deflates the typical depreciation curve and can turn a fairly price‑sensitive segment into a steady investment.

Comparative Context

When you examine the Porsche 356 price relative to similar era sports cars:

• Jaguar E-Type (by 1958)—average price range of $200,000–$250,000 in excellent condition, making the 356 a more accessible yet historic alternative.
• Mercedes-Benz 190D—priced between $80,000–$120,000, typically offering a smoother chassis and the prestige of a German luxury brand.
• Alfa Romeo 750 (Barchetta)—well-maintained examples can fetch $350,000+, emphasizing the 356’s position as a mid‑tier vintage sports icon.

Wherever you stand on this spectrum, the used Porsche 356 price is often considered a bargain compared to the high‑end Italian and German hill clamberers. This offers a unique niche for enthusiasts seeking classic European performance without the premium price tag.

Market

---

Last 20 car trackeds