First-Ever Drop Top Porsche Heads to Auction

One-of-One 1964 Porsche 901 Cabriolet Prototype Is Going on the Auction Block in Paris

True Porsche fanatics are undoubtedly familiar with the 901 moniker. Originally intended to replace the 356, things changed when Peugeot staked claim to any number with a “0” in the middle. That little glitch led to the switch to a now legendary 911 designation, but Porsche still produced 82 901’s. Many of which exist today in the collections of wealthy investors.

But none are as rare (and potentially as valuable) as this one. That’s because this 1964 901 Cabriolet exists not only as the very first Porsche drop top, but the only 901 Cabriolet in existence. The prototype was designed and created to explore the idea of a drop top, but the plan was scrapped after the Cab failed to meet Porsche’s in house testing requirements. Instead, we got the Targa.

Not really surprising, considering Porsche designed the 901 as a fixed roof car. But demand from the U.S. for a convertible led Porsche to slice the roof off and reinforce the chassis of this particular car. It would take another 20+ years before Porsche offered a true convertible.

Porsche stored the 901 Cabriolet for three years before they sold it to a collector. It resided in his garage until 2001, after which it was traded and sold again. And now, some lucky (wealthy) collector will have their chance at owning it too. Because the one of one prototype will roll across the block in Paris at the RM Sotheby auction on February 8.

Remarkably, the Cabriolet lives on in mostly original, unrestored condition. It sports a little minor wear, and obviously the mechanicals have been gone through. But those little kinks won’t exactly garner you a discount. With a high estimate of close to $1,000,000, this historically significant Porsche won’t come cheap. But it will come with unmatched exclusivity.