Bonhams has just announced that its rare 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder with coachwork by Wendler has just sold for an impressive $4,185,000 USD at Amelia Island.
This iconic classic car — chassis no. 550-0036 — is arguable one of Porsches most important models ever developed, and with its limited production and age, continues to rise in price with each auction appearance. This particular example was owned by a devoted Porsche collector for over 50 years where it saw a past life of racing outings at Nürburgring, AVUS, and Hockenheim. The most recent owner purchased the car in 1972 where it was largely complete minus the engine. This was quickly addressed where a correct Type 547 four-cam engine — engine no. 90-034 — was sourced, rebuilt by legendary four-cam engine builder Billy Doyle, and fitted to the 550. The original transaxle (no. 10027) remains in the car and has never been separated from 550-0036.
While a restoration took place in the ’80s on this 550-0036, it wasn’t until 1998 that a more comprehensive restoration took place. This meticulous job spanned from 1998 until 2003 where each detail of the restoration has been documented and kept in two large binders. The entire body has been stripped down and repaired by the Porsche experts of Willison Werkstatt of Lake Park, Florida. From a performance standpoint, this lightweight Porsche 550 Spyder produces 135bhp at 7,200rpm with two Weber 40 DCM carburetors, matched to a four-speed manual transaxle.
Those looking to learn more on the history and provenance of this 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder can head over to Bonhams.
In other automotive news, Classic 9 Motorwerks brought its Porsche C9 RS Turbo to Amelia Island.
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