Porsche Five Fifty Spyder
- Sunday, 27 April 2008
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Colin Edghill's Martin & Walker Technic 550 Spyder
The Porsche 550 Spyder, built between 1953 and 1956 after its launch at the Geneva Motor Show in '53, was the company's first purpose-built racing car and achieved a class win at Le Mans in 1955. It will always be remembered as the car James Dean met his end in, his car being nicknamed 'Little Bastard'. Some enthusiasts tend to shy away from replica cars, and many class them in the 'kit car' bracket. While some kits are better than others, there's still a stigma that surrounds the subject. However, although the Porsche 550 Spyder replica may be purchased as a DIY build, make no mistake, this is an extremely well engineered and fine handling sports car and the term 'kit' soon becomes forgotten when you become better acquainted with this car. If you've always hankered after a 550 Spyder, forget it unless you are a multi-millionaire - only around 90 original customer cars were ever built and nowadays they change hand for huge sums. Therefore, your only option is to acquire a replica. Produced by Martin & Walker Ltd at Thruxton Airfield, Hants, since 1987, the Technic 550 Spyder is a faithful reproduction of the mid-engined 1950's Porsche race car. The company has produced more than 100 kits which utilise lots of VW donor car parts, ostensibly the engine and transmission, with other running gear a mixture of VW or whatever each individual builder deems suitable. The basic starter kit costs £4,520 and comprises parts like the GFRP bodyshell, tube chassis, wishbones, rear suspension, rear axle, trailing arms etc. Then there's a mechanical parts package at £1,850 and a whole host of options. All you need then is an engine and gearbox and you're on your way!
For the full story check out the June 2008 issue of VolksWorld magazine. On sale on 18 April and then available through back issues.
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