1956-1957
The September 1955 Frankfurt motor show saw the unveiling of a much-improved version of the 356. Dubbed the 356A, this new model could be immediately be recognised by its smoothly curved windscreen, while inside there was a new dashboard.
The entry-level model was the 1300 which produced a by now modest 44bhp. It was short-lived and went out of production in 1957, in favour of the more powerful models.
Specification
Engine: Rear-mounted, air-cooled flat-four with two Solex 32 PBIC downdraft carburettors
Capacity: 1290cc
Compression ratio: 6.5:1
Bore and stroke: 74.5x74mm
Maximum power: 44bhp at 4200rpm
Maximum torque: 81Nm at 2800rpm
Transmission: Four speed manual driving the rear axle
Brakes: Front: 280x40mm drums; rear: 280x40mm drums
Suspension: Front: Two swinging arms with two transverse torsion bar springs, telescopic dampers and anti-roll bar; Rear: Swing axles with torsion bar springs and telescopic dampers
Wheels & tyres: Front: 4.5Jx15 with 5.90/15 tyres 4.5Jx15 with 5.90/15 tyres
Length: 3950mm
Width 1670mm
Weight: 850kg
0-62mph: 22sec
Top speed: 90mph
Variations
The 356A 1300 was offered in Coupe and Cabriolet forms.
