Tom Papadopoulos, Race Car Driver and Exotic Car Specialist; "Because of my humble beginnings, a mechanic on Porsche race cars, it is truly an honour today to own and offer one of the finest Porsche models for resale from my 'Automobile Orphanage', the vintage 550 Spyder.

"The 550 Spyder currently offered is one of the finest examples of its kind. Its provenance is truly outstanding and unquestionable, for this reason, it is my suggestion as the perfect holiday gift for the automobile connoisseur.

"This 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder is currently available and seeking a good new home."

This car is one of two originally purchased by its first owner. One was used immediately for racing and this car was not. Thus, this 550’s absolutely exceptional, straight, no-nonsense condition throughout. It is complete with its original body, chassis and original motor (an original ‘long block’, removed from the car for safe keeping), and has had six owners from new, the fourth and fifth having kept it for 15-20 years respectively.

It is complete with huge history/ownership from new! Included are the original bill of sale and original owners manual.

Tom Papadopoulos of Autosport Designs, Inc. has been in the vintage automobile restoration and sales business for the past twenty-two years.

Autosport Designs, Inc. was founded by Tom P. and partner Barry Wagner in a 2,100 square foot facility with no employees. The business is currently housed in a 35,000 square foot facility with fifteen employees.

Originally dedicated to Porsche automobiles, Autosport Designs has become one of the foremost Aston Martin specialists due to Tom’s special affinity for the marque (nurtured by his first visit to Newport Pagnell in 1976). Autosport Designs’ facility has grown to include not only Aston Martin and Porsche, but also Ferrari and other specialty marques.

Over the years, Tom and Barry have enjoyed a distinguished racing career both in Porsche and Ferrari’s (Tom was Champion of the N.A. Ferrari 355 Challenge Series in 1997 and 1998), currently his goal (now that his daughter Cali is old enough to know who to root for!) is to return to racing in the United States in one of the new Aston DBRS9s.

The Porsche 550 Spyder is 'Price on Request'. For further information on this perfect Christmas present please visit www.autosportdesigns.com or email [email protected].

Text: Classic Driver
Photos: Alexander Davidis - John Galt Films