1964 Porsche 356 C
We received the car as a complete vehicle and handled the full disassembly in-house. Once stripped to a bare shell, we took it down to bare metal to identify problem areas. As expected with a '64, there was rust in all the typical spots: front end, floor pans, door bottoms, battery box and fender repair areas. All rusted sections were cut out. Replacement panels were sourced from Stoddard where possible, and others were fabricated in-house. Even the headlight bucket assemblies required reworking. Once all metalwork was completed, we focused on achieving proper panel fit and flushness. After stripping, the car was mounted on a frame jig to ensure it was square before we addressed structural components. From there, we moved on to sheet metal—doors, rockers, etc.—and refined all panel gaps. With the metalwork finalized, we proceeded through bodywork, primer, and paint. We then did initial lid and panel assembly before handing the project off. Final assembly and interior work were completed by Air Cooled Auto, who handled exterior trim, gauges, and interior fitment. Rick Bennett performed the drivetrain restoration.
The 1964 Porsche 356 C was the final and most refined iteration of Porsche’s first production sports car, embodying over a decade of continuous evolution. Featuring a 1.6L air-cooled flat-four engine with up to 95 horsepower in the SC variant, it delivered a lively and engaging driving experience. This model introduced standard disc brakes for improved stopping power, enhancing both performance and safety. Retaining the timeless curves and compact dimensions that defined the 356, the C variant was the last of its kind before the arrival of the 911. Revered for its balance, simplicity, and pure driving feel, the 356 C remains a beloved classic among Porsche enthusiasts.
