Porsche 550 Spyder Replica by Vintage Motorcars

Description

The Porsche 550 Spyder is one of the most iconic sports cars of the 20th century, celebrated for its racing success and enduring cultural impact. Designed in the early 1950s as a lightweight, mid-engined roadster, the 550 was purpose-built for motorsport and quickly made its mark with class wins at prestigious events like the Targa Florio and the Carrera Panamericana. Its nimble handling and reliable engineering earned it favor among both factory teams and privateers, helping establish Porsche’s reputation in international racing. Beyond the track, the 550 Spyder gained lasting fame through its association with Hollywood actor James Dean, whose fatal crash in his personal 550—nicknamed “Little Bastard”—cemented the car’s mystique and elevated it to pop culture legend.

This particular 550 Spyder replica pays tribute to the Porsche 550 Spyder No. 55 driven by Hans Herrmann to an impressive 3rd place overall finish in the 1954 Carrera Panamericana. Built by Vintage Motorcars of California in 2005 / 2006, the car has undergone a full refurbishment under current ownership, including an engine rebuild. Finished in GT Silver Metallic over Maroon leather with Fletcher/Telefunken livery, it features a 2,332cc flat-four engine, four-wheel disc brakes, and a host of period-correct racing details.

Highlights

• Tribute build inspired by Hans Herrmann’s No. 55 1954 Carrera Panamericana race car

• Powered by a 2,332cc air-cooled flat-four engine, rebuilt by DAS Sport Classics

• Rancho Performance transaxle four-speed manual

• OEM-style upholstered seats and wood-rimmed steering wheel

• Fiberglass bodywork with twin grille decklid secured with leather straps

• Finished in Silver Metallic with Fletcher/Telefunken #55 livery

• Correct “Wide 5” wheels with faux drum brake covers

• Dual Weber 44 IDF carburetors

• Porsche-style fan shroud with Bosch alternator

• Period-style VDO gauges and drilled pedal covers

• 12-volt electrical system

• Four-wheel disc brakes

• Hoosier Vintage Speedster tires

Features

• Billet aluminum clutch master cylinder, brake master cylinder, and reservoir

• Low-profile Plexiglas windscreen

• Chassis riveted to tube frame

• Brushed aluminum fuel tank

• Hood-mounted fuel filler

• Driver’s headrest fairing

• Central exhaust outlet

• Lap belts

Known Imperfections

• Fiberglass body may show light surface blemishes upon close inspection

• Minor wear consistent with use and age

Included

• Service records

• Car cover

Ownership History

This 550 Spyder replica was acquired by the seller from a previous owner based in Arizona. Originally constructed by Vintage Motorcars of California Inc. over a span of 20 years, the car now features tribute livery honoring the historic 1954 Carrera Panamericana entry. It is being offered with a clean South Carolina title registered as a “1956 Porsche 550 SP,” although the vehicle is currently located in Georgia. Since taking ownership, the seller has invested over $42,376 in servicing the car, with supporting invoices and documentation included in the sale. Additional Notes

A Broad Arrow Auctions Specialist is working as an agent on behalf of the owner of this vehicle. Broad Arrow Auctions is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hagerty.

Contact: Marvin Waters  Phone: 910.315.2918  email: mwaters@hagerty.com