The Porsche 356 quickly became popular among custom hot rod builders in Southern California upon its arrival in the United States. These enthusiasts modified the cars with zeal, removing bumpers, changing wheels, and adding Stinger exhausts for canyon drives or track use. The innovative and passionate efforts of these hot-rodders caught the attention of Porsche engineers in Zuffenhausen, leading to the official debut of the 356 Speedster.

Gary Emory, raised in his father Neil's Valley Custom shop, supplied early Porsche hot-rodders in Southern California with performance parts. In the early 1990s, Gary established Parts Obsolete, becoming a key source for rare Porsche parts and showcasing extensive knowledge beyond concours restoration. Gary bridged the gap between Porsche purists and 'outlaw' modifiers, passing this connection to his son Rod, whose company, Emory Motorsports, crafted renowned custom Porsches, including the example featured here.

Originally a 1957 356 A coupe from Zuffenhausen, this vehicle underwent Outlaw enhancements at Emory's McMinnville, Oregon facility. It boasts a specially designed 2.6-litre Emory-Rothsport 'Outlaw-4' engine with electronic fuel injection producing 260 horsepower, a full-flow oil system, twin-plug ignition and custom exhaust. Proprietary disc brakes and custom wheels enhance performance, while the upgraded suspension includes rack and pinion steering and independent rear suspension.

Emory's team, known for custom metalwork, finished the body in Light Ivory, removing bumpers and the front bonnet handle, and adding a louvered deck lid, GT-style mirror, and the classic Mobil Oil Pegasus logos. The cabin features Green Vine leather upholstery, a roll cage, and modern conveniences like air conditioning and Bluetooth.

This stunning 1957 Porsche 356 A Outlaw by Emory will feature as part of RM Sotheby’s Arizona sale on 25th January 2024. Photo © Nathan Leach-Proffer / RM Sotheby's.