As you look around our paddock of Exotics, you’ll find some of the most powerful and sought after machines in the world.  Draped in blues, reds, yellows and more, these technologically advanced supercars react quicker than you, are clearly faster than you, and are known for being out of reach of the normal road-goer.  In short, you’re excited, but you’re inferior.  But among these V12 and forced induction powerhouses lies a gem that puts even our Lamborghini LP640 to shame; the Porsche 550 Spyder Replica.  You might be surprised when the historical richness of its nearly 70 year old design scheme overpower the sharp edges and sloping hoods of our collection, but this is a car that goes beyond the novelty of yesteryear.  Designed by Ferry Porsche, son of Ferdinand Porsche Sr., the exotic fender arches and very low, horizontal profile pay homage to its racing intentions.  In fact, although the 550 was inspired by the original 356, this was to be a model solely to showcase Porsche’s motor sports capabilities; it successfully did so when the 550 gave Porsche its first overall win in a major sports car racing event, the 1956 Targa Florio.  Even these few historical interjections demand a heightened sense of the respect for this car.

Imagine the 550 Spyder parked right next to our Boxster S; which car do you respect more?  The Boxster is undoubtedly quicker and naturally more advanced, and the fact that it is a Porsche alone give it immense credibility.  But think of it this way (yes, we’re about to allude to the Royal Wedding), Kate Middleton is a beautiful, modern rendition on the British Monarchy, but sit her next to the Queen of 50 years and tell us who you respect more.  You get the point, the historical accolades of the 550 Spyder, and its contribution to the Porsche brand as a whole, are valuable assets that any modern exotic would drop horsepower for.  The most important part, though, is that this classic panache is injected into the driver the minute you climb in the cockpit, making for an experience unlike any other.

It’s not just the 550’s benevolent disposition that fuels the driver’s friendship with the car; driving the classic will bring this friendship to a whole new level.  The simplicity of its mechanics and gadgetry allow for a true automotive experience.  The sheer size of its tight cockpit force you to become one with the car, a repercussion that you’ll find refreshingly intimate.  Start the engine and you’ll hear the 550 clear its throat with pops and gurgles, prompting you to also take a deep breath and clear your own throat before you set off on a journey together.  Aside from the admiration of your fellow drivers and the subconscious adrenaline that comes from being so close to the past, our replica dually provides a powerful, hands-on experience.  With 145 horsepower coming from a flat 4 and mated to a 4 speed manual, the 550 looks modestly zippy on paper.  Remember, though, that this car tips the scales at only 1400 pounds, allowing for nearly 10 horsepower per pound, almost the same as our Lotus Elise.  In short, this is one quick classic.  The steering is really a blast because you are able to truly feel the road; something lost in most modern cars, even some Exotics.  The nice thing about our replica is that while all specs are exact and quality is at a maximum, reassurances such as disc brakes help to ensure a classic yet competitive experience.  So whether you’re looking to garner admiration and respect, transport yourself back in time, or just enjoy a lightweight convertible, the 550 Spyder Replica is a heightened experience.  We’re sure this car will be your best friend and not a “little bastard,” as James Dean would put it.