1962 Porsche 356B Rally Legend Up for Auction at Bonhams

This exceptional 356B was originally delivered new to Colorado, USA, in October 1962. Fast forward to the early '90s, and the car was imported by Porsche specialist Roger Bray for a full restoration and rally conversion. Over three years, from 1990 to 1993, the car was meticulously rebuilt from the ground up, transforming into a serious historic rally contender.

Nicknamed ‘Bumble’ due to its striking silver and yellow livery, this Porsche has since competed in legendary events like the Classic Marathon, Rallye des Alpes, Rallye des Isles, Liège-Rome-Liège, and Three Castles Rally. It has also tackled the world-famous Rallye Monte-Carlo Historique multiple times, proving its capability on the toughest stages.

When it was acquired in 2021, the current owner wasted no time putting it to the test. The car took part in the RAC Rally of the Tests, where it stood out as one of the few Porsche 356s to complete the entire event without mechanical issues, no small feat given the brutal demands of historic rallying. Since then, thousands of pounds have been invested in refining its performance, ensuring it remains a top-tier competitor.

Designed for serious motorsport, Bumble is fully equipped with period-correct rally modifications, including:

• Competition fuel tank
• Oil cooler for improved engine longevity
• 12-volt electrical conversion for reliability
• Period rally seats with full harness belts
• Comprehensive roll cage for safety
• Fire extinguisher system
• GT-style louvred engine lid for improved airflow
• Navigation-ready dashboard featuring Brantz rally meters and stopwatches

Under the skin, the original 1.6L flat-four has been upgraded to 1,720cc with NPR cylinders and pistons, delivering an impressive 141 horsepower. The engine was rally-prepped by Barry Curtis, including a competition clutch and 356C disc brake conversion for improved stopping power. The car has been expertly maintained over the years, with recent work carried out by Gant Speed Engineering and JAZ, ensuring peak performance.

Exterior & Interior – A True Competition Machine

Visually, this 356B T6 commands attention. The silver and yellow paintwork remains in excellent condition, punctuated by rally decals, bonnet straps, and essential competition fittings like towing eyes and isolator switches. It sits on Michelin Alpin tyres, ready to tackle any terrain. While minor imperfections such as slight bubbling in a few areas exist, they do not detract from the car’s stunning presence.

Inside, the cabin is all about function. The black-and-white check fabric seats add a touch of vintage Porsche charm, while the roll cage, harnesses, and plumbed-in extinguisher emphasize its rally credentials. Every switch, dial, and meter has a purpose, designed to keep the driver and co-driver fully in control during high-speed competition.

A Rich History & Extensive Documentation

This 356B T6 comes with an impressive archive of paperwork, chronicling its extensive upgrades, rally history, and meticulous maintenance. Included are invoices, receipts, letters, and photographs detailing its journey from a classic Porsche to a fully-fledged historic rally car. The car also has FIVA eligibility, making it easy to obtain an updated passport for future international events.

Additionally, the car comes with an extensive spares package, available through separate negotiation. This includes multiple sets of wheels, snow tyres, rally spikes, and essential spare parts to keep it running in top form.

Now Up for Auction on Bonhams Cars

With over £200,000 invested in its transformation, this 1962 Porsche 356B T6 represents one of the finest historic rally cars available today. Its ability to consistently perform at the highest level of classic motorsport is a testament to the painstaking development and refinement it has undergone over the years.

Now offered at Bonhams Cars, this is a rare chance to acquire a competition-proven, FIA-eligible Porsche 356B that’s ready to continue its winning legacy. Whether you're an avid historic rally competitor or a collector searching for an iconic piece of motorsport history, ‘Bumble’ is a machine that delivers on every level.