Overview

In 1952, the 356 was updated with a new, single-piece windscreen, larger front bonnet handle and rubber-inlaid bumpers. Inside, there were new, green-digited instruments and a speedometer was now standard.

Also new this year was the option of a larger 1500cc engine that lifted power to 60bhp. This was a lot of power and the German magazine, auto motor und sport, wrote that: Its driving performances lie in regions which are available to only a small proportion of drivers. This was, after all, one of the few cars of the day that could exceed 100mph.

How to Spot

Smooth, rounded bodyshell. Bumpers closely fitted to body with no overriders. Single, vertical grille in engine lid. Single-piece windscreen

Variations

Coupe and Cabriolet versions were offered

Specification

Capacity: 1488cc

Compression ratio: 7:1

Maximum Power: 60bhp @ 5000rpm

Maximum Torque: 102Nm @ 3000rpm

Brakes: Front: 230x30mm drums; rear: 230x30mm drums

Suspension: Front: Double parallel arms with torsion bar springs, telescopic dampers and anti-roll bar; Rear: Swing axles with torsion bar springs and telescopic dampers

Wheels & Tyres: Front: 30Dx16 with 5.00/16 tyres 30Dx16 with 5.00/16 tyres

Length: 3850mm

Width: 1660mm

Weight: 770kg

Did you know?

0-60mph: 15.5 sec Top speed: 105mph

Because it was lighter, this first 1500cc 356 was slightly faster than the version that followed.