_{^{It cost the equivalent of around $15,000, was powered by a 1.5-litre four-cylinder ‘boxer’ engine and was fully extended at around 160km/h in favourable conditions.}}

_{^{But good examples these days change hands readily at well over $200,000.}}

_{^{The cheapest open Porsche today is the new-generation Boxster that will be previewed on the Porsche stand at the Melbourne International Motor Show that opens on February 27.}}

_{^{It will cost just over $110,000 when it goes on sale in mid-March and its new 2.9-litre ‘boxer’ six cylinder engine will drive it to over 250km/h.}}

_{^{As to what it will be worth in 54 years’ time is anyone’s guess, but there’s one thing the experts agree on: Speedster values will keep rising.}}

_{^{Just how far will be tested at Shannons Melbourne Motor Show Auction on Monday March 9, when a beautifully presented Pre-A Speedster goes under the hammer. Shannons are quoting a guiding range of $180,000-$210,000, but given the Speedster’s worldwide collectability, that could prove conservative.}}

_{^{Speedster chassis number 80373 was built in March 1955 and delivered through US-agent Hoffmans in New York not long afterwards.}}

_{^{It was brought to Australia in late 2003 by a prominent Australian 356 Register member, who had it professionally converted to right-hand drive and given a complete repaint in Silver. Inside it has contrasting black upholstery and correct style Beige woven carpets, while its stunning appearance is set off by a burgundy folding top.}}

_{^{The Porsche was acquired by the current owner in 2005 and has been used sparingly since, primarily for weekend outings.}}

_{^{The Speedster is one of 50 vehicles and 60 items of memorabilia in the Melbourne Motor Show, which is the 14th by Shannons at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre.}}

_{^{All lots will be on display in the MEC’s Concourse area free to the public throughout the Motor Show from Friday February 27, with the auction conducted from 2.30pm on Monday March 9.}}