Zoospeed.com Brings Porsche Spyder 550 Scale 1:2.3 to United States

KALAMAZOO, Mich., April 13 -- Porsche's first purpose built racecar, made famous by Hollywood rebel, James Dean, is back in production. At least at scale 1:2.3 size. It is available for the first time in the United States exclusively at Zoospeed.com.

Any Porschephile or automobile aficionado knows the significance of the Porsche 550 Spyder. Spyders not only routinely beat competitors in their own class, but also often finished ahead of more powerful, higher classed machines, earning the Spyder a reputation as "the giant killer." Only 129 models were made, and the car went out of production in 1957. To commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Porsche Spyder 550, a limited run of five hundred and fifty serial numbered 550 Spyders scale 1:2.3 will be produced.

The Spyder is a completely functioning car, equipped with rechargeable batteries that power an electric motor. The Spyder is handmade in Germany, with the approval of Dr. Ing. H.c. F. Porsche AG, using the best materials and quality-tested parts. The body and parts are produced at a scale of 1:2.3 to the original Porsche 550 Spyder, with the exception of functional parts such as the steering wheel, seat, and wheels. The Spyder's hand-laminated fiberglass body and aluminum chassis are painstakingly handmade to exacting standards of authenticity. Details include chrome-plated fuel tank caps, headlights, ventilation grids, the Spyder lettering in metallic gold, leather hood fasteners, wooden steering wheel, and an air pump. Available in virtually any color that Porsche traditionally paints, the scale model stands approximately 1 1/2 feet high and a little over five feet long.

Its primary function is as a collectible for Porsche or automobile enthusiasts. However, for the child who has everything, this is a functioning scale automobile with forward and reverse, working headlights, authentic Spyder sound and a working handbrake. The scale Spyder can travel up to 5 miles per hour. It was designed to be driven by children from the ages of 3 to 8 years old. Children who use this as a toy should be supervised by an adult.

"The Porsche 550 Spyder scale 1:2.3 gives today's consumers the opportunity to experience a legend," explains Darren Draves, President of Zoospeed. "When I spotted the little Spyder at the Porsche factory museum in Stuttgart I thought it was unbelievably cool. After seeing the incredible craftsmanship and detail I knew I had to have one, and I don't even have a child to drive one!"

The Porsche 550 Spyder scale 1:2.3 can be seen at www.zoospeed.com . The Zoospeed site includes a QuickTime video and virtual tour of the vehicle, allowing visitors to experience driving the Spyder. The site also offers history on the original racecar, as well as photos, specifications and purchasing information.

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