Scheib Speedster classic cars for sale

History of the Scheib Speedster

The Scheib Speedster was developed as a faithful homage to the iconic Porsche 356 Speedster, a model revered for its purist roadster design and driving experience. Scheib executed this homage by building upon a fully restored Volkswagen Beetle chassis, ensuring both reliability and familiarity in mechanics. By closely adhering to the 356’s proportions and silhouette, Scheib’s interpretation preserves the classic lines, stance, and tactile driving feel of its muse. Over time, the Speedster gained popularity among classic car enthusiasts due to its accurate styling and blend of historical nostalgia with accessible technology.

Model history of the Scheib Speedster

The Scheib Speedster doesn't trace a direct lineage through preceding or subsequent generations under the Scheib name, as it stands primarily as a dedicated, standalone homage to the original Porsche 356 Speedster. The model consistently features a 1600ccm flat-four Boxer engine and open cabriolet body, based on Volkswagen components. There were no complex successions or facelifts; rather, Scheib’s approach was to standardise key historical features—like the classic banjo steering wheel, cream gauges, and accurate body shape—throughout its manufacturing span.

Highlights of the Scheib Speedster

A defining highlight is the precise construction based on the Volkswagen Beetle chassis, pairing historical Porsche dimensions and aura with robust engineering and serviceability. Classic features include a traditional black interior, banjo-style steering wheel, white-faced dials, and the signature lowered Boxer engine sound. Paintwork frequently echoes original Porsche hues, particularly the distinctive red, while the folding fabric soft-top and quality panel shut-lines reinforce the car’s attention to authenticity and finish.

Technical data of the Scheib Speedster

Special Editions and Collectible Models

There are no documented special editions within the Scheib Speedster line. Each car is produced to a strict template, focusing on accurate reproduction of the 356 Speedster’s specification and spirit, maintaining consistency across examples.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

No specific weak points are documented for the Scheib Speedster. However, buyers should be mindful of standard classic car concerns—namely, ensuring the Beetle chassis is free of rust, the fabric top mechanism operates smoothly, and all the body panels align and shut correctly due to restoration variations. Regular maintenance remains straightforward, given the broad parts availability for Volkswagen Beetle-derived components.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

Power comes from a naturally aspirated, air-cooled 1600ccm Boxer engine, known for its unmistakable character and sound. With the classic Beetle transaxle, gear changes are predictable and mechanical, providing an engaging tactile experience. Suspension geometry mirrors that of period 356 Speedsters, offering agile cornering and genuine classic roadster feel. Popular models include those restored to factory-correct specifications, notably cars finished in period Porsche red with matching interiors, which often feature the most thorough restoration, updated wheels, and tyres for dependable road use. Notable are examples dressed in Porsche-red paint, equipped with classic black interiors and banjo steering wheels—these combinations are favoured for their period correctness and visual appeal.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Design is centred around the 356 Speedster template, with close adherence to original body proportions, detailing, and finish. On the inside, black upholstery and crisp white-faced gauges evoke the era, complemented by the banjo-style wheel. The exterior often showcases traditional colours, particularly Porsche red, with a finely-fitted convertible fabric roof and attention to the shut-lines of the doors, bonnet, and rear decklid. Accessories like correct-style wheels, period-style switches, and optional new tyres are frequently included, enhancing authenticity and usability.

Other features

Scheib Speedsters are fully restorable and benefit from excellent parts availability thanks to their Volkswagen base. Restoration work typically targets chassis, body alignment, and mechanical refurbishment, ensuring the long-term enjoyment and practicality of ownership. The car remains a popular entry point for enthusiasts wanting authentic 356 looks without the cost and scarcity of genuine Porsches.

Summary

The Scheib Speedster combines authentic Porsche 356 Speedster aesthetics with accessible, robust Volkswagen underpinnings. Key features such as the 1600ccm Boxer engine, fabric soft-top, and detailed period-correct interior offer a pure classic motoring experience with straightforward restoration and maintenance. 100% supply and demand market focus confirms that this model is synonymous with the Scheib name, cementing its status among classic enthusiasts seeking quality and accuracy at attractive value.