Porsche 551 Spyder Vision Concept (2019)

The idea of the successor to the fifties Porsche 550, the 551 Spyder is actually quite old. 911 & Porsche World issue in September 2012 wrote: “Project 551, a compact roadster, remain on ice”. In 2019, a 1:1 hard model was created, with the intention to further develop the design identity of Porsche and provide ideas for future details, like the roll bar.

Clear design references include a diminutive windshield, the radiator grilles above the mid-mounted engine, and the subtle rear fins. The carbon roll bar is both unusual for its modernist form and at one with the overall design, which will, no doubt, have Porsche air-cooled fans writing petitions to their dealers. Modern Porsche styling cues such as the full-width single-bar taillight, boxy front intakes, and horizontal vent in the hood are all yanked out of current 911 orthodoxy. It all comes together, however, in a simple, cut-down sort of way—purposeful and minimalist in the same way as the original, right down to the low, frameless windshield and simple interior.

No details have been shared as to the platform the concept was built on, or indeed whether it was intended to be powered by a petrol engine or electric motors. The company would only say that making such concept cars was an important element of exploring its identity and design trends.