The original 356 Speedster was the brainchild of Max Hoffmann, a Porsche dealer who saw the need for a lighter sports car for weekend racers and asked the factory to produce a lighter, open car. The lowered windshield and rakish convertible top are hallmarks of this unique car. Originals, when a rare rust-free example can be found, sell at prices over $100,000. This replicar body was assembled in Brazil and the mechanicals were installed in St. Louis. The Speedster includes a remote oil filter, chrome engine breather, color-keyed floor mats, a full black canvas top with matching side curtains, a Talbot-style side mirror, a forced-air heater with electric fan and an EMPI extractor exhaust system. Powered by professionally-built Type I flat four air-cooled engines like the originals, but with a 1914 cc engine, an increase of 20% displacement over the originals. Many other engine improvements include high energy electronic ignition, alternator charging system, etc. This replica has a professionally-built heavy duty four speed transaxle, disk front brakes and modern radial tires for improved braking and handling. It is built on a new 3 inch DOM tube frame: just like the original Spyder and a major improvement over the typical VW-based pan frame used in many Speedster replicas. The body is hand-laid fiberglass and is painted in Sikkens Porsche silver color and clear-coat paint. (Sikkens is the OEM paint supplier to many high-end auto manufacturers.) The interior is red with full leather, including the seats, dash and side panels with matching carpet.This low mileage replica is available at a low reserve.