Seduction Motorsports 550 Spyder recreation
By Dean Larson
Photos: Seller, BringaTrailer.com
Many Porsches have flown the Martini Racing colors over the years, but never a 550 Spyder that we know of. That’s because the Italian distillery Martini & Rossi didn’t start its race car sponsorship program until 1958, narrowly missing the original 550 Spyder’s debut. But recreation and replica cars afford an opportunity to reimagine and experience history, and this outlaw-themed 550 Spyder from Seduction Motorsports is a trip.
The Distilleria Nazionale di Spirito di Vinoi opened its doors back 1863 in Turin, but came be the more recognized Martini & Rossi in 1879. Its chief products have consisted of vermouth and sparkling wines, and the company has always pursued aggressive event and T.V. marketing. Martini’s earliest efforts in motorsports began in 1958, and by the 1970s, some of the most recognizable entries in sports car racing and Formula One wore the tri-color dark blue, light blue and red stripes on a white or silver backdrop. Martini Racing would also be active in touring car and rallying racing, with the Lancia Delta Integrale capturing the most titles.
The Martini stripes and logo have become so iconic that many customizers and hobbyists have applied the livery to everything from modern sports cars to classic muscle machines. And in the case of this 550 Spyder, it’s a perfect fit.
Seduction Motorsports completed the car back in 2015 with a water-cooled Subaru EJ25 engine powering its custom tube chassis. RideTech suspension is used front and rear, and disc brakes clench down on all-four corners.
The Spyder’s low-cut windscreen and black wide-five wheels provide outlaw flavor, and the fiberglass bodywork is finished in Porsche/Audi polar white. A monochromatic take on the Martini Racing livery keeps things fresh, and plays into the larger black and white theme on the car. The interior breaks character slightly, with red diamond-stitched leatherette upholstery.
The car makes a pretty impressive visual statement, and is likely a hoot to drive. The seller has noted a few flaws in the car though, including a blemish in the interior, an oil drip from the engine and a finicky clutch, and it will be interesting to see how they affect the hammer price. Currently, the car sits at $25,900 with two days remaining in the auction.
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