The 356 was the first Porsche to be produced under the name of the famous engineer, Ferdinand, who had also designed some of the finest Mercedes models in the Twenties and Thirties and had started off the Volkswagen project. This first creation of his, with bodywork designed by his son Ferry, was actually based on Volkswagen's standards. Like the "Beetle", from which many mechanical parts were derived, it has rear wheel drive and engine. The first series, simply called 356, was presented in 1949 in coupe and drophead versions, both fitted with a 1,131cc engine. In April 1951 the alternative 1,290cc engine was made available, as well as a 1,488cc engine in September, with either 55bhp or 70bph, called "S". In September 1955 the second series, named 356A appeared. The engine had been enlarged to 1,582cc, but the 1,290cc was still available. The most important differences concerned steering, suspension system and a larger windscreen, too. 21.045 examples were produced; among them, some "Speedster" and "Carrera" models. On request a Super version was available, with 15bhp more. In 1959 the 356B series was presented and in 1953 the C, too. Production ceased in 1965 to give way to the new 911 model. At the Mille Miglia, from 1952 to 1957, this model dominated its class, in the Grand Touring category.

Engine: 4-cylinder boxer. Cubic capacity: 1,488cc. Power: 55bhp at 4,400rpm. Maximum speed: 155kph. Feed: induction. Chassis/bodywork: stamped plate floor panel / two-seater drophead.