The 918 Spyder, a hybrid marvel and successor to the renowned 959 and Carrera GT, opened a door for customization previously unseen in Porsche’s production cars. Buyers of the top-tier Weissach Package-equipped 918 Spyders could choose factory-applied wraps emulating historic Porsche liveries, such as Martini and the ‘Salzburg’ scheme. However, a select few owners went beyond the wrap, opting to have their desired livery painted directly onto their 918 Spyder, paying homage to Porsche’s racing history.
A trio of passionate owners, enamored with Porsche’s racing legacy, commissioned unique ‘hippy’ liveries for their 918 Spyders. Two were delivered to the United States, echoing the psychedelic Works 917s, while the third, chassis 680, boasts an entirely new livery. This unique model, the only one delivered to Europe, dons a special ‘Psychedelic Design’ color scheme with a base of Paint-to-Sample Rosso Corsa from archrival Ferrari.
Serial number 680, out of the limited production of 918 units, stands as a testament to Porsche’s racing heritage fused with modern aesthetics. The exterior’s flamboyance is complemented by a well-chosen specification, including desirable CXX options. Noteworthy features include silver brake calipers, a white steering wheel center marker, black quilted fabric in the boot and firewall, and a thicker rear window.
Internally, the 918 boasts Indian Red leather with Bianco Leda piping, creating a harmonious blend of style and performance. The attention to detail extends to the keys and pouches, painted in a two-tone white and Rosso Corsa. Additionally, the car bears the signature of Frank-Steffen Walliser, the project manager for the 918 Spyder’s development.
Offered by RM Sotheby’s as “arguably the finest and most lavishly specified 918 Spyder in existence,” serial number 680 remains in impeccable condition. Its original owner, who took possession directly from the Zuffenhausen factory, has maintained it in Switzerland, with minimal mileage and a recent service by Porsche Service Center Gstaad.
This unique 918 Spyder, boasting remarkable specifications and a unique ‘Psychedelic Design,’ presents a rare opportunity to acquire a piece of automotive history directly from its original caretaker. Bidding for this ultra-rare 918 Spyder will run on January 18-20 and it is expected to fetch more than $2.3 million.
Source: RM Sotheby’s
