(1953–1956) Porsche 550 Price, Racing History, Specs, Features, and Review

A lightweight construction, mid-engine layout, and sleek lines made the Porsche 550 an icon of racing, with numerous victories and podium finishes in some of the most prestigious races in the world.

Reportedly, only 90 examples of the Porsche 550 were made between 1953 and 1956. Hence, the current auction value of the Porsche 550 is in the millions. However, over many decades several replicas of the Porsche 550 have also been produced.

Racing and cultural legacy of the Porsche 550?

The Porsche 550 got its first win in 1953 the Nurburgring Eifel Race in which it was wearing a convertible body style. The Porsche 550 won its class in the 1953 Carrera Panamericana, a grueling race across Mexico. The same year, the Porsche 550 also secured class victory in the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Other notable victories for the Porsche 550 included a win at the Targa Florio in 1956. These successes helped establish Porsche as a serious contender in the world of endurance racing. This paved the way for future victories with other models such as the Porsche 718, the Porsche 907, and the Porsche 917.

Furthermore, the Porsche 550’s successor, the Porsche 718 or 718 RSK inherited the successful track record of its predecessor and earn fame as an ever more successful Porsche race car. That said, the 550 was not only raced by Porsche. There were many privateers that drove the Porsche 550 in races like the 1000-mile Mille Miglia.

Lastly, how is it possible that some sort of controversial event had not stained such a famous car? In 1955, James Dean who was considered one of the most popular rising stars of Hollywood died in his Porsche 550 Spyder in a crash.

What is Porsche 550’s current estimated worth?

The Porsche 550 is worth an average of $3.9 million in an auction. The 1957 Porsche 550A Spyder model has been sold for as high as $4.9 million by Rmsothebys. On the hand, one of the first models of the 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder was sold for over $4.1 million by Bonhams. Meanwhile, the Porsche 550 has an average value of $45,001.

Porsche 550 and its engines?

Both, the Porsche 550 and 550 A models were powered by a four-cylinder, air cooled engine located behind the driver, and featured a lightweight tubular space-frame chassis. The 1.5L Inline-4 engine was initially attached to a 4-speed manual transmission but later a 5-speed manual setup was also introduced. The engine used to put out 108 horsepower and 89 lb-ft of torque.

Porsche 550 body styles, interaction, design, and interior?

The Porsche 550’s low profile and sleek, aerodynamic shape gives it a sense of motion even when it's standing still, while its prominent curves and clean lines exude a sense of understated sophistication. From the emblematic Porsche insignia on the hood to the circular headlights and sculpted fenders, every element of the 550's design is carefully crafted to balance form and function, resulting in a car that looks just as at home on the track as it does on the street.

Having said that, the Porsche 550 was offered in two distinct body styles, namely the 2-door coupe and the 2-door convertible. Moreover, the 550 A and 550 RS variants of this iconic race car from the 1950s have endured the test of time and remain in existence.

Notably, the 1955 Porsche 550 RS, once owned by the renowned fashion designer Ralph Lauren, is widely recognized as a symbol of both automotive and cultural excellence. On the other hand, the 550 isn't just a pretty face. Its interior is equally impressive. Despite its minimalist design, the 550's cockpit is carefully crafted to prioritize driver comfort and performance.

Final Thoughts

The Porsche 550 Coupe/Convertible is a genius of engineering that is dipped in historical significance. Its design is enchanting and the performance is exhilarating. If you have a few million to spare, do not miss out on this timeless beauty.