In 1954, Porsche introduced its delightful Speedster as a 1955 model. Essentially willed into being by the powerful New York-based foreign-car impresario Max Hoffman, this roadster proved to be extremely competitive both in the showroom and on the track. In effect a stripped-down Cabriolet with a removable windshield, the Speedster was devoid of almost every amenity for its base price of under $3,000 delivered in New York; even its heating system was an extra-cost option. A pair of side curtains and a folding fabric top kept bad weather at bay.

Speedsters could be enjoyed as everyday transportation, then driven to local racing circuits—where owners would adhere masking tape to the glass-covered headlamps, apply numbers to the doors and decklids, and line up on the starting grid. Speedsters quickly established themselves as the cars to beat in under-2.0-liter US amateur racing.

This example, chassis number 83438, left the factory finished in Black and outfitted with the more powerful 1600 Super engine, sealed-beam headlights, USA bumpers, and coupe seats, according to a copy of its Kardex on file. It was built on 11 June 1957 and distributed through the famed New York dealer Max Hoffman.

As seen today, the Porsche presents in spectacular condition as a result of a comprehensive restoration completed in 2013 by none other than Alois Ruf’s eponymous and storied company RUF. Closely associated with Porsches since the 1960s and long regarded as the foremost tuner of the marque, RUF is famous for creating some of the most memorable and legendary supercars based on the 911 platform. Lesser known and perhaps less common, but no less impressive, are RUF restorations such as this stellar example.

A large collection of invoices documents the extensive amount of work RUF performed, totaling just over 150,000 Euros. Beautifully finished in factory-correct black paint, the vibrant interior is finished in deep red leather with matching red carpets. Soon after completion, the Speedster appeared at the 2013 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este where it won “Best Iconic Car” by the jury. Additionally, the Speedster received FIVA certification that same year and, importantly, retains its numbers-matching engine.

The 356 Speedster is one of the most famous Porsche models and among the most recognizable sports cars ever produced. This example checks all the boxes of an ideal example should be, elevated by its expert restoration overseen by none other than Alois Ruf himself, the man with the golden touch for Porsches.