- 1956 Vintage 550 Spyder Replica
- Built by Vintage Motorcars of California
- 2,332cc Volkswagen flat-four engine
- 4-speed manual transmission
- Fiberglass body
- 15" Wide-Five steel wheels
- Front disc brakes
- Rear drum brakes
- Jenvey throttle-body fuel injection
- Central exhaust outlet
- Center-fill fuel tank
- Rear suspension with coilovers & Bilstein dampers
- Tan bucket seats
- 180-mph speedometer
The Porsche 550 was a mid-engined sports car, available as a coupe and as a spyder, specifically developed and used for racing in the mid-fifties. It won upon debut at the Nurburgring Eifel Race in 1953, a result that would set the tone for the rest of its motorsport career. It was succeeded by the Porsche 718 in 1957, which would also become incredibly successful. 70 years on, they’ve become incredibly sought after, with the most expensive one reportedly selling for over $5 million. But even for those in the tax bracket to invest that kind of money in one of these, there’s one big catch: only 90 were ever made. So, is there an alternative? Well, this replica from Vintage Motorcars of California might be the next best option.
Exterior and Interior
Visually, it is uncannily similar to the original Porsche 550 Spyder, especially in this classic color combination of silver with a tan interior. The fiberglass body has several sponsor stickers and “55” racing numbers, both of which look period correct. Even the 15-inch Wide-Five steel wheels blend in perfectly, no modern chrome alloys to clash with this concept like some replicas have. For those who love symmetry, it has a central exhaust outlet and a center-fill fuel tank. On the inside, one is immediately aware of the beautiful simplicity of the dashboard and the tan bucket seats (with contrasting black lap belts). There are only three gauges on the dash: an 180 mph speedometer, a tachometer and a combination of indication lights, temperature and fuel. There is also an oil temperature gauge attached under the dash. Overall, to the untrained eye, it may not even be distinguishable from the real Porsche 550, especially at first glance.
Engine
Similar to the original Porsche, this car also has a flat 4 engine. However, while the original was a 1.5L DOHC unit with carburetors, this is a 2332cc Volkswagen engine with Jenvey throttle-body fuel injection. It also has a 4-speed manual transmission (as did the early Porsche 550’s), front disc brakes and rear drum brakes. The rear suspension has coilovers and Bilstein dampers. It is, however, a front-wheel drive vehicle.
The Porsche 550 was a mid-engined sports car, available as a coupe and as a spyder, specifically developed and used for racing in the mid-fifties. It won upon debut at the Nurburgring Eifel Race in 1953, a result that would set the tone for the rest of its motorsport career. It was succeeded by the Porsche 718 in 1957, which would also become incredibly successful. 70 years on, they’ve become incredibly sought after, with the most expensive one reportedly selling for over $5 million. But even for those in the tax bracket to invest that kind of money in one of these, there’s one big catch: only 90 were ever made. So, is there an alternative? Well, this replica from Vintage Motorcars of California might be the next best option.
Porsche is a German luxury automobile manufacturer founded in 1931 by Ferdinand Porsche. The company is known for producing high-performance sports cars, SUVs, and sedans. One of the most iconic models produced by Porsche is the 550 Spyder. The 550 Spyder was introduced in 1953 and was designed as a lightweight and agile sports car. It was powered by a four-cylinder engine and had a top speed of around 140 mph. The 550 Spyder quickly gained a reputation for its handling and performance and raced in various events worldwide. Owning a Porsche 550 is a dream come true for many enthusiasts, as only 90 examples were made. A rare chance is at hand in owning this 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder Replica.
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