Motorsportraits™
Spotlight – “Reid Vann”
One of over 40 speedsters that Reid has owned over the years, this 1957 356A Speedster is by far a favorite. She was first spotted by Liz at European Collectibles in California in 2011. Apparently love at first sight, Liz admitted that the unique practicality of an unrusted, straight body shell with the beyond bulletproof boxer 4, swayed the couple into moving this beauty to the Midwest. Reid, however, being Reid, decided that stock really was not the way that the lightened Blue Goddess needed to be. Replacing the engine with a period correct 1720cc (yes, that is the large bore kit) as well as a new flywheel, racing cams paired with the original, fully rebuilt 644 gearbox, transformed the gentle cruiser into the oversteer maven she is today. Thanks to the design of the car with toe-in and the engine all the way at the back of that tiny wheelbase, it takes little effort to be sideways around a track, taking turns at speeds that seem hard to imagine with a little 50s four-banger.
About me
The oracle of all things Porsche this side of the Mississippi, Reid Vann needs no introduction. An adept racer, avid collector and automobile artisan of rare talent, Reid has an interesting collection of cars and experiences. With a background as an electrical engineer in academia, Reid has followed his passion for Porsches in creating the ultimate restoration paradise, breathe life back into aging classics that now bare their well tested analog claws on the delicate digital darlings that now crowd our streets.
Technical Specifications
- Car: 1957, Porsche 356A “Speedster” Aqua Marine Metallic
- Engine: 1720 cc straight 4 (Single-cam)
- Drivetrain: 4-spd 644 with
lightweight flywheel - Carburetor: Solex 40 DBIC
- Power: 90 bhp (est)
- Torque: 110 lb-ft (est)
Reid recounts, bemusedly, that despite being the driving force behind the purchase, Liz rarely drives this Blue Wonder, seen more often piloting the 1973 Carrera RS Touring. Reid seems to think that she prefers the precise shifting of the 915 gearbox in the RS, as compared to the longer and somewhat erratic throws that characterize the 644. Still, Liz and Reid, having done a concours-level restoration of a completely spectacular interior as well as exterior, have taken part in historic rallies in this delightful damsel.
1957 Porsche 356A “Speedster”
