1959 Porsche 356 A 1600 S – Auto Zürich Classic Car Show 2021
The Porsche 356 A 1600 S arrived at a moment when quiet technical refinements mattered more than dramatic change. Its higher-output “Super” engine, subtle design updates, and growing range of body styles showed how far Porsche had come since its earliest cars. By the end of the decade, this version of the 356 had become a familiar yet respected sight on roads, racetracks, and movie screens alike.
Technical Details:
The Porsche 356 A 1600 S was powered by an air-cooled four-cylinder boxer engine with a displacement of 1,582 cc. Known in enthusiast circles as the “Super,” this version delivered 75 PS (55 kW) and 117 Nm of torque, a notable step up from the standard 1600 engine. The motor featured lightweight aluminum crankcases, cylinder heads, and pistons, with chrome-plated cylinder running surfaces to reduce wear. Valve actuation was handled by a central camshaft, while the crankshaft ran in plain bearings. As in the earlier 1300 S, the 1600 S used roller-bearing connecting rods, contributing to durability at higher engine speeds. Fuel delivery came from twin Solex 40 PBIC downdraft carburetors, later replaced by Zenith 32 NDIX units from the 1958 model year onward. Power was transmitted through a four-speed gearbox, often cited for its full synchromesh operation. Braking was handled by drum brakes on all four wheels, with duplex drums at the front and simplex at the rear. With a curb weight of around 850 kg, the 1600 S reached a top speed of approximately 175 km/h and accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in about 14.5 seconds.
- Manufacturer: Porsche
- Model Name: Porsche 356 A 1600 S
- Year of Manufacturing: 1956–1959
Design:
Visually, the 356 A series refined an already established shape rather than reinventing it. The front windshield became fully curved, giving the car a cleaner, more modern appearance than earlier iterations. Small but telling details distinguished the A models: integrated turn signals within the horn grilles, a Porsche crest set into the hood handle, and a generally more cohesive front fascia. The body remained compact and low, with proportions that emphasized balance over aggression. From March 1957 onward, teardrop-shaped rear lights replaced earlier designs, placing later 356 A cars firmly in a more contemporary visual era. Inside, the cabin felt tidier and more comfortable than before. Newly developed seats featured anatomically shaped backrests, while reinforcement points for safety belts were integrated into the floor. Buyers could choose from a wide range of body styles, including Coupé, Cabriolet, Speedster, and later even fixed-roof Hardtop variants, each giving the same basic design a different character.
Historical Significance:
By the mid-1950s, Porsche had earned a reputation not just for sporting success, but for efficiency—achieving strong results with comparatively modest engine outputs. The 356 A marked a maturation of the original concept, arriving five years after the start of series production. While the exotic 1500 GS Carrera drew attention at motor shows, most customers focused on the more accessible 1500 and 1600 models, particularly the 1600 S with its balance of performance and usability. Sales reflected this appeal, with more than 13,000 examples of the 356 A 1600 and 1600 S produced across all body styles. By offering Coupés, Cabriolets, Speedsters, and other open variants with similar mechanical specifications, Porsche broadened its reach and strengthened its position in international markets. The A series firmly established the brand as a serious sports car manufacturer rather than a niche builder.
Quirks and Pop Culture:
The “1600 S” designation is commonly expanded to “1600 Super,” highlighting its higher-output engine compared with the “Normal” version. As the final evolution of the 356 A generation, the 1959 models often attract collectors who appreciate their late-production refinements. Motorsport credibility also played a role in the car’s image, building on the 356’s class success at events such as 24 Hours of Le Mans in the early 1950s. Beyond racing, the 356 entered popular culture through film and celebrity ownership. A 356 Speedster became associated with the 1959 film Gidget, linked to actor James Darren. Enthusiast lore also connects the 356 to owners such as Sean Connery, reinforcing the model’s enduring cultural visibility.
Display and preservation:
The vehicle was exhibited at the Auto Zürich Classic Car Show in 2021. As part of the broader Auto Zürich Car Show, the Classic section has grown into a key attraction for lovers of historic vehicles in Switzerland. In 2021, the event took place at Messe Zürich and featured a dedicated hall showcasing a curated selection of vintage automobiles, spanning from pre-war icons to youngtimers. The atmosphere combined elegance with accessibility, allowing visitors to admire rare collector cars alongside enthusiast vehicles. Special displays highlighted Swiss automotive heritage and featured club presentations and dealer exhibits.
Conclusion:
The Porsche 356 A 1600 S represents a stage where careful engineering, restrained design evolution, and expanding market confidence came together. Its technically advanced “Super” engine, subtle but effective design updates, and broad range of body styles made it appealing to a wide audience. Today, it stands as a clear expression of Porsche’s mid-1950s philosophy: steady improvement, efficiency, and a growing presence both on the road and in the wider cultural landscape.
