One of the most
bizarre and unique automotive creations is going under the hammer at no
reserve, a 1953 Porsche 356 that has been converted to a stretch limousine. The
Porsche 356 Limousine is part of the Taj Ma Garaj collection, which is set to
be auctioned by RM Sotheby’s on September 27.
Despite the Reutter
badging on the body, the high-quality conversion was done by Don Boeke of
Egyptian Custom Body in Dayton, Ohio. John Dixon, the late owner of the Taj Ma
Garaj collection, commissioned the vehicle for his daughter’s wedding.
The limousine is
based on a 356 Pre-A Coupe, which was in a very sorry state as the floors were
completely rotten. The exterior body panels however were in good shape, making
it an ideal candidate for the conversion.
All the
body-related work -including cutting, stretching and painting- was done by the
Egyptian Custom Body while the cabin was outsourced to other shops. In
addition, the original engine was replaced by an air-cooled flat-four from a
912, giving the 356 limo a bit more oomph to cope with the extra weight. An air
suspension was also installed.
The interior looks
simply beautiful and, as a proper limo should be, it’s been compartmentalized;
the rear passenger cell -with suicide doors!- offers plenty of space for two
occupants and their luggage, with the divider featuring an analogue temperature
reader and clock, as well as holders for champagne and its flutes.
The one-of-a-kind
Porsche 356 Limousine looks like it’s been done on a very high standard both
inside and out and it will certainly be interesting to see how much money are
collectors willing to pay for it.
