356A 1955-59

In the latter part of 1955, the 356 A was introduced with several subtle yet significant alterations. Internally designated as "Type 1," it earned the affectionate moniker "T1" from enthusiasts. In the United States, the early 356s received the "Continental" badge, totaling 1,200 units. Following that, from autumn 1955 to January 1956, an additional 156 units were designated as the even rarer T1 "European" variant before reverting to the numerical 356 designation. Early 1957 saw the emergence of a second revision of the 356 A, dubbed Type 2 (or T2). Production of the Speedster reached its zenith in 1957 with 1,171 cars before gradually declining. The four-cam "Carrera" engine, initially exclusive to spyder race cars, became an optional upgrade starting with the 356 A. Over the past 25 years, replicas of the 356 A have surged in popularity. The standard engine boasted a 1,582 cc (1.6 L; 96.5 cu in) 4-cylinder boxer, air-cooled, naturally aspirated configuration, with pushrod OHV and 2 valves per cylinder. Equipped with dual downdraft Zenith carburetors, it generated 60 PS (59 hp; 44 kW) at 4,500 rpm and a peak torque of 110 N⋅m (81 lb⋅ft; 11 kg⋅m) at 2,800 rpm.