Overview

Essentially the successor to the 356A Speedster, the Roadster had the same mechanical’s as the 356B 1660, and the same body updates, but with a lightweight hood and simpler, race-orientated interior.

How to spot

Raised front bumper and headlamps. Wide bonnet handle. Vents under front bumper. Simple, unlined hood.

Specification

Capacity: 1582cc

Compression ratio: 7.5:1

Maximum Power: 60bhp @ 4500rpm

Maximum Torque: 110Nm @ 2800rpm

Brakes: Front: 280x40mm drums; rear: 280x40mm drums

Suspension: Front: Two swinging arms with two transvers torsion bar springs, telescopic dampers and anti-roll bar; Rear: Swing axles with radius arms, two torsion bar springs and telescopic dampers

Wheels & Tyres: Front: 4.5Jx15 with 5.60-15 tyres 4.5Jx15 with 5.60-15 tyres

Length: 4010mm

Width: 1670mm

Weight: 870kg

Did you know?

0-60mph: 16.5 sec Top speed: 96mph

The Roadster was built by a different contractor to other 356Bs; Drauz in Heilbronn until 1961 then B Leteren in Brussels.