FROM MY REVIEWS IN THE 356 REGISTRY

Jim Schrager, who writes the REGISTRY’S Market Watch Column, has literally created a new book genre.   BUYING * DRIVING AND ENJOYING THE PORSCHE 356.   Unlike the Buyer’s Guides, which it superficially resembles, it does attempt the impossible task of dividing all Porsches by 5 stars.  Jim limits the book to 356s and does an excellent job of explaining that while Speedsters were the cheapest body available, they now command the highest price and he fits the other bodies in the greater scheme of things.  Personally, I feel that that collectable Porsches are valued in inverse proportion to their potential usefulness. He also recognizes that amateurs shouldn’t be buying Carreras with “Carreras are positively wonderful cars, but not recommended for those new the marque.”

Jim has clearly bought (and sold) many Porsches and almost all of his maxims and suggestions are backed up by actual experience.  Those who are new will appreciate the explanation of all the things over which we obsess: panel gaps, rust, originality (Kardex/Certificate of Authenticity).  And he is not just talking about collectibles: covered are not only  “cars with upside” but also in-between cars and beaters.

Especially impressive is the chapter on test driving, which not only explains what to look for, but explains how to drive a Porsche so you find out what you need to know without looking like a total jerk or worse a new comer.  A short chapter on Keeping a 356 on the Road is exceptionally useful.  While an original tool kit is much too valuable to actually use, Jim lists the contents of a real tool kit.  Every new owner needs to read the section on staying ahead of rust.  Following, peculiarly a chapter on Selling Your Porsche, is more useful information in the Tech Tips chapter.  Buy the book and find out the 10 things never to do in a 356.  The book closes with two chapters on Jim’s personal experiences.  Garage Stories covers problems and Chasing Wild Geese experiences buying cars.  Actually ending the book are appendices with a glossary of Porsche speak, original Porsche colors (alas no color samples – though the descriptions are occasionally evocative: Auratium Green “light green, similar to split pea soup”), finally selected articles from Sports Car Market Magazine and our favorite the REGISTRY.  Brett’s chassis numbers are reprinted; unfortunately with no corrections of the several small errors which have been found.

And it’s a bargain at $24.95.  You really must buy  BUYING * DRIVING AND ENJOYING THE PORSCHE 356.