Vehicle Description
To be OFFERED AT AUCTION WITHOUT RESERVE at Auctions America's Fort
Lauderdale event, March 31-2, 2017.
Chassis No.
80879
Estimate:
$275,000 - $325,000 US
Based on the early America roadsters bodied by Erich Heuer's Gl�ser
Karosserie, the Speedster took shape with Hoffman's realization
that a mid-market gap existed for a no-frills, race-ready
convertible. Reutter smoothed over the America's original bodywork
to result in the famous high-waisted bathtub style, which
eventually proved to be one of Porsche's most celebrated designs of
all time. The lightweight Speedster featured low, removable
windshields, thin-shelled bucket seats, basic fabric tops and side
curtains, and little else in the way of creature comforts.
Although the Speedster was launched in the United States in 1954,
where it became an instant hit, it was not presented to a European
audience until the summer of 1955. They were true multi-purpose
sports cars whose owners could drive to the track, quickly unbolt
the removable windshield if they preferred, tape over the
headlamps, slap some numbers on the side and go racing. Soon, the
small-displacement production sports car grids of the SCCA and
California Sports Car Club were filled with Speedsters whose
brilliant handling qualities made them consistent favorites.
Although most examples were exported to America, they made their
mark in Europe as well, consistently winning their classes at hill
climbs and racing events at traditional circuits.
Unique to this 1955 Porsche Speedster is the ownership history.
This car was a part of Hollywood actor/ car collector Nicholas
Cage's esteemed private car collection. Nicholas Cage has very
defined tastes when it comes to motorcars and has always had a
respected collection.
This beautifully and meticulously restored Porsche Speedster is
presented with white paintwork, tan folding top; and speedster
seats that are eloquently covered in tan upholstery. The outside is
very well detailed and highlighted by a single fender-mounted
mirror, polished factory wheels and a California black plate. Under
the front bonnet is a full-size spare tire, a jack and a tool roll.
Powering this German motorcar is a 1,600-cc four-cylinder engine
that is producing an estimated 75 horsepower. The engine bay has
been carefully detailed and features dual carburetors.
This is a unique opportunity to own a piece of celebrity history;
and to own a very well-restored 1955 Porsche.
