Tom, It sounds like a very early (pre 1950) 356.

Did you notice if the engine was mid-position or rear of the axle?


I believe around 1949-50 the 356 body went from aluminum to steel. The very early one, maybe even prototypes only, had a mid-position VW 1131cc 38hp engines. Later the engine was turned around to make more interior space.
The 356A,B,C was followed by the 901 which was re-named 911 due to some conflict with Peugeot's numbering system.

That was a very rare car!

I've had my share of P cars. They are simple machines to work on. We currently still own a 911SC Cabrio, a 914 2.0L and a 916GT V8 project that may never get finished.

You really need a digital camera Tom.