1987 Porsche 550 - Spyder RS 1500

1987 Porsche 550 Spyder replica based on the 1955 original

No other manufacturer achieved the same level of success as Porsche with this road-legal model built to racing specifications. When production began in 1954, the Porsche 550 Spyder cost 24,600 DM; today, it is worth several million.

It was designed as a mid-engined roadster by VW dealer W. Glöckler and his operations manager, H. Ramelow.

The Type 550 became famous and was the preferred marque of James Dean and Steve McQueen, as well as legendary racing driver Hans Herrmann, who competed in successful races such as the Carrera Panamericana, the Mille Miglia, and the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

It features the Fuhrmann engine (Type 547)—an air-cooled, four-cylinder boxer engine with a vertical shaft drive—delivering 110 hp and a top speed of 240 km/h. Today, a Fuhrmann engine alone commands a price of approximately €360,000.

Visually, the vehicle shown is identical to the original. It utilizes an original 1955 chassis, with bodywork and components from the Chamonix/VW plant in Brazil—a common practice for the 550. Since both originals and replicas were primarily built for the US market, this particular 550 Spyder also originated in America. All non-original Chamonix components have been replaced with genuine Porsche parts sourced from the USA. Documented assembly and restoration costs total €240,000; the rare racing engine alone accounts for over €100,000 of that figure.

The vehicle's underbody and flat-frame structure are made of aluminum, as are parts of the interior trim. To accommodate the 1984 Porsche racing engine (No. 2002) used here, the engine mounts were reinforced. An oil cooler and additional intake fans were installed, and the rear engine bulkhead was reinforced with fire-retardant material. Technical specifications: 145–150 hp; displacement 1,925 cc.

Engine speed: 5,800 rpm; continuous operating speed: 3,800 rpm. Carburetors: 44 IDF; camshaft: 320-degree (3-point); bore: 91 mm; stroke: 74 mm; compression ratio: 9.8:1; fuel: Super Plus (98–102 octane). Oil: 20W50 or 15W40 multigrade (no full synthetic).

Oil filter: Golf Mk1 or Mk2 type. Brakes: disc brakes front, drum brakes rear. Tires: 195/60 R15.

Exhaust system: matches the original 550 "4-into-2-into-1" configuration. Ignition system equipped with a rev limiter. Both doors reinforced with side-impact protection. Aluminum underbody paneling features air vents. Original 1955 550 chassis refurbished with new square-profile torsion bar springs in the axle tube; torsion bars replaced and upgraded shock absorbers installed. New interior featuring leather and aluminum trim, an immobilizer, and much more—the result of a four-year build process. Better than the factory original.

Additionally, a used 1955 fabric soft top from the USA is included; the buyer can have this fitted to the vehicle if desired. Alternatively, a new removable soft top can be fitted. The vehicle is new and has now been completed. Please make initial contact via email, as I travel frequently.

Please, no inquiries from people who simply enjoy writing messages; I naturally welcome inquiries from serious prospective buyers who intend to purchase such an expensive vehicle.