1952 Porsche 356 Split Window Cabriolet
1952 Porsche 356 Split Window Cabriolet
VIN - 10266
Miles - 5775
Transmission - 4-Speed
Walk Around Video —>> https://youtu.be/wpXTcx7SJLA
Driving Video —>> https://youtu.be/ZlCqXblf_gE?si=mSTpdIvpa4Ik0t5G
Promo Video —> > https://youtube.com/shorts/w17io-yLAQs
For your consideration is this extremely rare and unique California Black Plate registered 1952 Porsche 356 “Split Windshield” Cabriolet, chassis 10266. Built April 22, 1952 this was the 4th from the last Split window Cabriolet made. Original US delivery car, through Max Hoffman, and delivered with Interim bumpers. One of only 40 US delivered split window cabs, and according to the registry there are less than 10 still in existence. The Kardex and the COA confirm this Split Cab was delivered with factory equipment including Telefunken Radio, Antenna, Comfort Seats, Vented wheels, Cooling rings, Reinforced bumpers, Tachometer, and Speedometer. Unlike most other split window 356s, chassis 10266 still maintains a lot of originality. One of the most notable features being its original floor. The undercarriage is 73 years old and mostly untouched. A very honest example that is rock solid with only minimal corrosion. This could be one of the only cars that still has its original floor and has not seen a “full” restoration. Other originals details include the original door panels, rear interior side panels, switch gear, and many small lights, lenses, and trim.
Since acquiring 10266 in a trade deal one year ago, we have done the following; had the front and rear seats recovered is carefully sourced leather that very closely matches the original red leather features still in the car. We had a new top installed with the most correct materials we could source and in the correct Brown color. The headliner was sourced in Germany while the top was hand made here in the US. When we received the car it came with a lot of parts that had been gathered over the years for the car. A new rear window, window frame, sun visor, and many rubber gaskets. were sourced from Reinhold Plank. The correct rear view mirror and dome light were also included. These have been fully restored by Victor Miles. We had them properly installed on the center bar. In the last couple weeks we had the car completely wet sanded/paint corrected, installed correct 4-piece door seals, and new hood seal. The top, interior, paint correction, and some corrected details combine for a huge overall improvement in the cars aesthetic.
Here is a quick write up regarding the history of the car taken from the previous owner. “Not much is known about the early history in the 1950s and 1960s, but it does have California Black plates and has been registered in California since the 1960s. In the mid - 1970s this 356 was advertised in the Los Angeles Times and purchased by a California Highway Patrol officer who also had a 1952 356 Coupe. In the late 1980s, the 356 was purchased by an avid Volkswagen Bus collector who worked with Tom Birch, a leader in the 356 split-window registry and a key figure in helping preserve the early cars. Birch helped with the mechanics and installation of a new wiring harness. In the late 1990s, the 356 changed hands again and ended up at Victor Miles's shop for some light restoration work.”
The previous owner that we obtained the car from purchased 10266 in Redwood City, CA in 2008. He spent a lot of time and money getting the car back on its feet. In 2011 the engine was professionally rebuilt by Dave Merz in Santa Rosa, CA to Super specs. Brakes and all systems were gone through at that time as well. All receipts for the work completed are included in the sale. Roughly 5,000 miles have been put on the car since the car was brought back to life. Gauges were restored by North Hollywood Speedometer. Etc. This Split Cab is ready to be enjoyed. We have added roughly 400 miles under our ownership. The car will come with a service history file, clean CA title, BOTH original CA Black plates (front not pictured) which are still current and have been going back to the late 60’s! Porsche COA, a copy of the Kardex, and many receipts, including the engine rebuild, are included with the car.
This 52’ Split Window Cab is true head turner and has been displayed at several car shows including The Bridge VIII in 2024 and more recently Luftgetkult 11 in Durham, NC last month. Chassis 10266 would surely be a stellar addition to anyones collection. Please call or message with any questions.
Click Carfax image for vehicle history report
Disclaimer: All cars for sale are pre-owned. All applicable tax, title, and license fees are separate and not included in the price.*** Dealer processing fee of $399 is excluded in the advertised price. We do our very best to represent the vehicles we sell both cosmetically and mechanically. Our best advice to potential buyers is that if you aren't sure of something or have a question, PLEASE CALL. Our stellar eBay and online reputation over the last 18-years should put anyone at ease, but please do your research, ask questions, and by all means feel free to have any of our vehicles inspected prior to purchase. All the vehicles we sell have been serviced and inspected to some degree (please refer to description for details) BUT, with all that being said, all our vehicles are being sold AS-IS and WHERE-IS unless otherwise stated in the description. These are used vehicles so please expect there to be small blemishes, imperfections, and some repairs needed. If you need help making inspection or transportation arrangements, please contact us and we will gladly help! We are not like other car dealers! We are 'Car Guys' just like you and aim to please all of our customers to the best of our ability! Please call with any questions or concerns today!