Speedster builders kit
Kitman Motors 356A Speedster Base Replica Kit – Pure Open-Top Driving Joy
In September 1954, Porsche introduced the 356 Speedster to the American market — a lightweight, bare-bones icon that quickly became a favorite among racers and enthusiasts. Our Base Speedster replica kit captures that same spirit while incorporating modern engineering that makes the build more accessible and enjoyable.
This is the perfect starting point for builders who want the classic Speedster look at a more accessible price, with clear upgrade paths to our higher-spec Pro version later.
What’s Included in the Base Speedster Kit
- Premium fiberglass body in black gel coat
- 2 doors, hood, decklid, under-dash closeout
- Front and rear bumpers
- Door, hood, and decklid hinges (included but not pre-mounted)
- All mounting hardware
- Comprehensive build documentation and detailed parts list with vendor references
- Available in LHD or RHD configurations
- Optional hard top kit available
Technical Specifications
- Approximate body weight: 290 lbs
- Engine Location: Rear
- Drive Type: Rear
- Production Era Reproduced: 1956–1959
- Designed for stock VW ball joint beam front and IRS transaxle rear
- Excellent platform for air-cooled VW or Subaru 2.2L power
Chassis Solutions Designed for You
- Body Only – Ideal for experienced builders
- Subframe + Body – Recommended minimum. Mounts to a shortened VW pan (guide included). Precision collaboration with Washburn’s Metal
- Full Tube Chassis + Body – High-performance option with reinforced 16-gauge steel floor, 280 lb total chassis weight, and no welding required for body mounting
The Speedster Experience The Base Speedster delivers the raw, wind-in-your-hair driving sensation that made the original a legend. Lower and lighter than the Coupe, it excels on twisty roads and weekend rallies. Pair it with period-correct details or modern performance upgrades — the choice is yours.
Why Choose Kitman Motors for Your Speedster Build
- Fast availability — ships from Texas and California
- Premium body quality with excellent fit
- Clear, honest guidance for every step of the build
- Lifetime builder support included
- Community access via our Verified Builder Directory
Realistic Build Cost Guidance Body-only starts around $12,500. Full turnkey builds typically land between $28,000 – $55,000 depending on parts and finish level.
Next Steps – Begin Your Project Today
Add the Base Speedster kit to your cart or request a full parts list and personalized quote. We respond within 24 hours and stand ready to support you from day one through completion and beyond.
Join our Verified Kitman Builders →
Chassis options
2 Chassis options, or make your own
hard top or soft
The choice is yours. hard top kit available
best for DIY
Your in control, Best option for the experienced builder
WHY WAIT 16-24 MONTHS
- WHY WAIT 16-24 MONTHS
- Ships from Texas and California
- 100% Freedom
| Feature |
| Engine Location XS |
| Drive Type XS |
| Production for 1956-1959 XS |
| Seating Capacity XS |
| Feature | SPECIFICATION |
|---|---|
| Engine Location | REAR |
| Drive Type | REAR |
| Production for 1956-1959 | 20541 |
| Seating Capacity | 2 |
Shipping options
Shipping calculated after order, email today for a domestic or international freight quote.
Complete Freedom
Express Yourself Through Craft: Create Your Replica with your style choices.
Hand Built by you
Uncover the Advantages of DIY Car-Building Over Fantasizing.
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Tube Chassis
Turn key Tube Chassis, No cutting or welding required.
Tube chassis built from VW based components and ready for high performance.
Speedster Tube Chassis
The KitMan Motors custom tube chassis frame for our KitMan Coupe and Speedster uses a standard ball joint beam in the front and a modified VW IRS torsion assembly in the rear. The pan resembles a reinforced VW Beetle pan using a standard VW pedal assembly, has guide tubes for the clutch and accelerator tubes built into the reinforced tunnel. This frame is engineered to take a little more motor for our customers that enjoy pushing their cars a little harder. The floor is made of 16 gauge steel and the total weight of the KitMan tube chassis is 280 lbs.
Sub frame
Use on shortened VW pan chassis
Sub frame + VW Pan Chassis
This custom 3 piece sub-frame marries our Coupe and Speedster bodies to a modified VW pan using existing bolt on points of attachment. The pan needs to be reduced from 94.5 in (2400 mm) to an 82.7 in (2100 mm) wheel base. The total weight of the 3 piece Kitman sub-frame is 135 lbs.
Bolts directly to a shortened VW pan, no welding required.
Front and Rear bumper rails included.
kitmanmotors.com is not sponsored, associated, approved, endorsed nor, in any way, affiliated with Porsche Cars North America, Inc., or Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche, AG. Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG is the owner of numerous trademarks, both registered and unregistered, including, without limitation, the Porsche Crest®, Porsche®, and the model numbers and names and the distinctive shapes of the Porsche automobiles, such as the federally registered 911 automobile. Any mention of Porsche Cars North America, Inc., or Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche, AG. trademarked names or other marks is for purpose of reference only.
