A 1958 Porsche 550A Spyder with a decorated racing history is gearing up to appear in Bonhams’ Arizona sale in January.
The 550 Spyder is a classic racer, celebrated for its extraordinary performance and elegant looks. It cut a swath through the racing scene of the 1950s following its debut in 1953.
The 550A Spyder was built with a lighter chassis
The present specimen is the rare 550A variant, built with a lighter chassis.
It achieved 2nd in class and 5th overall at the 1958 24 Hours of Le Mans, and enjoyed victories at the Nurburgring 1000 km and the Dutch Grand Prix.
"This particular 550A, chassis number 0145, stands out as a very special car among a very special breed," comments Bonhams.
"Boasting a pedigree that distinguishes it above all others, it was a Porsche Works entrant, a veteran of four world championship races, what is believed to be the only 550A to compete in a Grand Prix, and one of just 40 ever created.”
"Furthermore, it’s one of the best original examples extant. Simply put, it’s among the most important cars of its kind in the world."
Last year a 550 from 1956 realised a Spyder world record £4.6m ($6m) in a UK sale. However, that model did not have the racing pedigree of this one.
It’s very likely we’re going to see a new world record when this model crosses the block on January 18 next year.
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