Porsche Mexico has launched an extraordinary one-of-a-kind 718 Spyder RS, a vehicle meticulously crafted to honor the iconic Carrera Panamericana race. This special edition, born from the bespoke Sonderwunsch program, boasts a unique exterior paint scheme and interior details that echo the legendary Porsche 550 Spyder, which triumphed in the 1954 Panamericana event. Beyond its striking design and historical significance, this automotive masterpiece is destined for auction, with a portion of the sales revenue dedicated to supporting various charitable foundations across Mexico. It also marks a significant moment as potentially the final combustion-engine iteration of the Porsche 718, blending heritage, philanthropy, and a nod to the future of automotive innovation.
The moniker “Carrera,” deeply ingrained in Porsche's identity, transcends its common association with the 911's base model. Its true essence lies in its Spanish origin, meaning “race,” a fitting tribute to Porsche's illustrious motorsport legacy. Between 1950 and 1954, Mexico hosted the Carrera Panamericana, a grueling border-to-border endurance race. This high-stakes competition, akin to Italy's Mille Miglia and Targa Florio, saw international drivers and manufacturers vying for glory over 3,300 kilometers of challenging terrain, encompassing perilous mountain passes and high-speed open roads, all compressed into just nine days. It was in this crucible of competition that Porsche solidified its racing prowess.
In the 1953 and 1954 editions of the Carrera Panamericana, Porsche 550s, piloted by skilled drivers, secured class victories against a diverse field of sports cars and NASCAR-style vehicles. To commemorate these historic achievements and bid adieu to the final combustion-powered Porsche 718, Porsche Mexico commissioned this unique 718 Spyder RS Panamericana Special. The vehicle is currently being auctioned through RM Sotheby’s Sealed Platform. According to the auction house, this special model, completed in August 2024, has been showcased on a few occasions but remains in pristine, showroom condition, underscoring its exclusivity and meticulous care.
The bespoke nature of this 718 Spyder RS is evident in its design, a collaborative effort with Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur in Zuffenhausen under the Sonderwunsch program. Its exterior livery is a direct homage to Hans Herrmann's victorious 1954 Porsche 550 Spyder, featuring a Centenaire Silver base coat, vibrant Signal Yellow roundels adorned with Herrmann’s race number 55, and striking Carmine Red stripes on the rear fenders. Further enhancing its unique identity, the hood proudly displays a TAG Heuer logo in Seal Grey, while a distinctive 718 logo graces the front grille. Inside, the vehicle’s cabin is upholstered predominantly in black leather, contrasting beautifully with Carmine Red accents on the steering wheel and seats. The headrests are intricately stitched with the La Carrera Panamericana logo, adding another layer of historical homage.
Beyond the striking visual details, the car features bespoke laser etching on the passenger-side dashboard, proclaiming “Spyder RS Panamericana Special.” The special door sills illuminate with an outline of a 550 Spyder, rendered in the colors of the Mexican flag, alongside the Sonderwunsch logo. A TAG Heuer logo is also subtly embossed on the center armrest. Adding to its rarity, the car bears the autograph of Hans Herrmann himself. This Panamericana Special is also equipped with a suite of premium features, including a Bose Surround Sound System, full bucket seats, a front axle lift system, Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB), the Chrono package, and the Weissach package, which incorporates numerous carbon fiber components, enhancing both aesthetics and performance.
The auction of this exceptional Porsche 718 Spyder RS Panamericana Special transcends a mere commercial transaction. A significant portion of the proceeds from its sale will be channeled to various social foundations in Mexico, including TECHO, Make-A-Wish, World Vision, Fundación Becar, and Hurakaan eco-táctica, thereby directly benefiting Mexican families. RM Sotheby’s has set a reserve price of US $560,000, with an estimated selling price of US $640,000. While bidding is open globally, potential international buyers should note that the car is built to Mexican specifications, and all invoicing and delivery will occur in Mexico. Any subsequent delivery or federalization for buyers outside of Mexico will be their sole responsibility.