A rusty, 70-year-old Porsche has sold for £393,000.
The rare 356 Pre-A 1500 Speedster was found on a farm.
As well as being covered in rust, the paintwork had totally faded.
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It had remained with the same family since it was bought brand new in 1955.
After being spotted, it was recovered and then lovingly preserved by experts before going to auction.
It was discovered in Ohio, US, as reported by What’s The Jam.
Thanks to its association with glamorous film stars like James Dean and Steve McQueen, the 356 Speedster is still considered very desirable, and any Pre-A version ranks amongst the most collectable Porsches of all.
Ahead of its sale, its listing said: “Rare Pre-A 356 Speedster, beautifully preserved, preservation class concours-ready and destined to turn heads at every classic car event worldwide.
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“Following a tip-off, the renowned California-based Porsche specialist and barn find expert, European Collectables, uncovered this early 356 Speedster at a smallholding in Ohio, where it had reportedly remained with the same family for over 70 years.
“The car was carefully recovered, extensively documented with photographs, and swiftly transported back to the company’s California headquarters.
“Upon its return, a careful programme of documentation and disassembly was undertaken to preserve the original components, with the focus on recommissioning while retaining as much authenticity as possible.
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“For safety and reliability, sections of the floor pan were replaced where necessary, along with all bushes, bearings, braking components and other perishable items, carried out by a team of marque specialist technicians.
Mechanically, all major components were confirmed to be original and matching numbers.
“The engine was disassembled (with detailed photographs on file) and remarkably, only required new piston rings before being fully inspected and reassembled.
“Auxiliary components were refurbished, and the tinware was correctly refinished.
“The matching gearbox was similarly stripped, checked and rebuilt, while the fuel system was recommissioned, retaining the original fuel tank with its attractive patination.
“Some elements of the interior, such as the carpets and seat coverings, were beyond preservation, necessitating the use of correct replacement carpets and a careful re-trim of the seats in aged leather to ensure visual consistency with the car’s original character.
“The door cards, dashboard, steering wheel and gauges remain original, while the hood frame still wears its factory paint and is fitted with an older, period correct but non-original blue hood.
Externally, every effort was made to preserve the integrity of the original early 356 body.
“We are informed that all panels retain their original body stamp markings and the car still carries its factory VIN tags, verified against a copy of the original factory Kardex.
“It is understood that the Speedster was in regular use only until 1962, covering approximately 60,000 miles before being laid to rest in the barn where it was later discovered.
“At some point early in its life, possibly by the supplying dealership, it was repainted silver, traces of which remain visible on the bodywork today.
“We are informed that the Speedster performs exceptionally well, idling smoothly with no smoke and having completed various trips without issue.
“This is a rare opportunity to acquire an exceptionally well-preserved Pre-A 356 Speedster, a model highly regarded for its purity and iconic design.
“From the few Pre-A Speedsters that do make it to market, it is very rare to see a survivor car, as many are now restored.
“With invitations already received for prestigious preservation class concours events, this remarkable 356 is poised to take centre stage at leading classic sports car gatherings worldwide.”
It was sold by Iconic Auctioneers at Silverstone, Northants, on Saturday, 23 Aug, for £393,750.
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