Porsche’s “Spyder”

For many Porsche enthusiasts, just hearing the name “Spyder” sets their hearts racing. With the 718 Spyder RS soon arriving at our home, let’s unravel the history of the Spyder series, which has evolved over more than 70 years from the original 550 Spyder to the latest 718 Spyder RS. Centered on the common themes of lightweight construction, high performance, and open-top driving, this lineage has always embodied cutting-edge technology and racing spirit. Let’s trace the heritage of this remarkable series.

The Origin of the Name “Spyder” and Porsche’s Philosophy

The name “Spyder” is said to derive from the 19th-century lightweight carriage known as the “Spider Phaeton.” In the early days of motorsport, it became a term widely used in the automotive world to describe lightweight open-body cars. Porsche inherited this tradition, bestowing the “Spyder” name on its lightweight mid-engine models designed to win races. Why “Spyder” instead of “Spider”? It is believed to follow the tradition of racing cars at the time rather than being a German spelling (though Porsche has not officially commented on this).

For Porsche, “Spyder” is not just a label for an open model. It represents a special lineage rooted in racing heritage, an ultimate driving machine that pursues purity through lightweight design and performance. This philosophy has been consistently upheld from the 1950s to the present day.

The Dawn: Birth and Glory of the Racing Spyders (1950s–60s)

550 Spyder

The history of Porsche Spyders began with the 550 Spyder, unveiled at the 1953 Paris Motor Show.

This car featured an extremely low silhouette and a 1.5L air-cooled flat-four engine, conquering numerous endurance races. Perhaps most famously, it was owned by actor James Dean. His untimely death immortalized the car under the nickname “Little Bastard.”

Building on the success of the 550, the upgraded 550A Spyder appeared in 1956. With a space frame structure balancing rigidity and lightness, it secured overall victory at the 1956 Targa Florio, earning the reputation of a “Giant Killer” by defeating larger-class cars. This tradition of toppling giants began here.

In 1957, the 718 RSK Spyder succeeded the 550. Improved aerodynamics and chassis enhancements led to class wins at Le Mans and Sebring in 1958-59. The 718 RS60/RS61 Spyder followed in 1960-61, adapting to regulation changes and achieving an overall victory at the 1960 Sebring 12 Hours, among other notable successes.

The pinnacle of this era was the 908/02 and 908/03 Spyders introduced in 1969-70. These ultra-light prototypes, powered by 3.0L air-cooled flat-eight engines, secured victories at the Targa Florio and Nürburgring, underpinning Porsche’s endurance racing dynasty. These racing Spyders are the true ancestors of later road cars.

Transition to Road Cars: The Spyder Revival (2000s)

Boxster S 550 Spyder Edition

The illustrious Spyder name transitioned to production cars in the 21st century.

In 2004, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the 550 Spyder, Porsche introduced the Boxster S 550 Spyder Edition (986). Limited to 1,953 units worldwide (a nod to the 550 Spyder’s debut year), it featured a special GT Silver body color, a 266hp engine boosted by 6hp over the standard model, and a suspension lowered by 10mm, among other exclusive upgrades.

In 2008, the Boxster RS60 Spyder was launched based on the 987 model. Created as a tribute to the 1960s racing Spyder 718 RS60, it was limited to 1,960 units worldwide (reflecting the year RS60 raced). It sported a unique GT3 Silver paint, red leather interior, and a 303hp engine. A sports exhaust system came standard, delivering a sportier drive and appearance than the base model. This special edition rekindled the glory of historic racing Spyders and became a coveted collector’s item.

Boxster RS60 Spyder

The first true Spyder in the Boxster lineup was the 2010 987 Boxster Spyder. Featuring a manually operated lightweight soft top and extensive weight reduction totaling 80kg, it was powered by a 3.4L flat-six engine producing 320hp. Embracing a “subtraction” philosophy, it pursued pure driving pleasure. This model stands as a monumental revival of the spirit of historic racing Spyders.

In 2015, the 981 Boxster Spyder arrived, equipped with a 3.8L naturally aspirated flat-six engine from the 911 Carrera S, delivering 375hp. Improved electric power steering earned it acclaim as the most potent Boxster for road use. This model masterfully balanced the performance worthy of the Spyder name with everyday usability. Personally, it remains my number one favorite among the 981 and 991.1 generations.

981 Boxster Spyder

A Technological Marvel: Hybrid and the 718 Generation (2010s–Present)

In 2013, Porsche unveiled the most revolutionary Spyder in its history: the “918 Spyder.”

Its plug-in hybrid system combined a 4.6L V8 engine with dual electric motors, producing a staggering 887hp. The 0-100 km/h sprint took just 2.6 seconds, shattering the norms of hypercar performance at the time. This car proved to the world that hybrids can be fast and became a symbol of Porsche’s technological prowess in the electrification era.

918 Spyder

In 2019, the 982 (718 generation) “718 Spyder” was introduced. Powered by a 4.0L naturally aspirated flat-six engine producing 420hp, it shared its chassis with the Cayman GT4 but was tuned as a roadster. The availability of a 6-speed manual and later a 7-speed PDK transmission sparked much enthusiasm, earning strong support from Porsche fans.

Then, in 2023, the 718 Spyder RS was born. Its 4.0L naturally aspirated flat-six engine, borrowed from the 911 GT3, delivered 500hp. Combined with a lightweight body weighing just 1,410kg, it achieved an astonishing 0-100 km/h time of 3.4 seconds. Celebrated as the “last naturally aspirated mid-engine Porsche,” it gained unprecedented popularity.

In 2024, Porsche’s bespoke division Sonderwunsch crafted a one-off “718 Spyder RS Panamericana Special.” This unique model honored the 1954 Carrera Panamericana victory of the 550 Spyder. Featuring a special silver paint with red stripes and a collaboration with watchmaker TAG Heuer, it was auctioned for charity. This car perfectly symbolizes the fusion of tradition and innovation.

718 Spyder RS Panamericana Special

What the Spyder Reveals About Porsche’s Essence

Looking back over more than 70 years of Spyder history, Porsche’s DNA is vividly reflected.

The race-bred design philosophy of “lightweight and open-top” has been consistently passed down from the 550 to the 718 RS. As seen in the V8 hybrid 918 and the GT3-powered 718 RS, the Spyder has always been Porsche’s experimental ground for technological innovation.

The “Spyder” badge is not merely a body style designation but the stage where Porsche pours its purest passion and performance. As the next generation moves toward electrification, how this DNA will be preserved remains unknown. However, models bearing the Spyder name will undoubtedly continue to embody the soul of Porsche.