In the mid-1950's, in races from Sebring to LeMans, Torrey Pines to Watkins Glen, the 550 Spyder was the car of choice among many professionals and wealthy amateur drivers for winning the 1500cc sports car class. Many of the greatest race drivers of the 1960's posted their early successes in 550 Spyders.
About 90 cars were built before the 550 was replaced by the 550A in 1956. The 550A had a lighter, stiffer tubular space frame and altered rear suspension. An additional 39 550A's were built through 1957.
From the date first sold, chassis 550 041 has been a competitive race car through various owners/drivers. Most notable would have been the Dutch Count, Carel Godin de Beaufort who raced the Spyder extensively including a 196 run at the LeMans 24 Hours race with his good friend, Thieu Hazemans. De Beaufort would go on to be considered Grand Prix racing's last true amateur. A colorful sportsman with a determination to beat the works teams on his own, Carel was a popular figure in the F1, F2 and sports car paddocks. Often, his Porsches were seen battling faster cars, events which eventually led to De Beaufort becoming Holland's first F1 World Championship points scorer.
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