1961 Porsche 718 RS 61 Spyder

Vehicle Details

Dealer
Canepa
Location
Scotts Valley, California, United States
Mileage
-
Transmission
5 SPEED MANUAL
Exterior color
SILVER

Overview

Introduction

The 1961 Porsche 718 RS 61 Spyder is the last of the legendary four-cam Spyders, with only 14 RS-61 examples built. This particular model, with VIN 718-076, was first delivered to Hermann Müller of Sweizimmern, Austria, and was successfully raced in the 1961-1963 Hillclimb World Championship.

History and Provenance

Chassis 718-076 is a well-documented RS61 completed in February 1961. It was originally delivered to Austrian racer Hermann Müller, who campaigned the car heavily in the FIA European Hill Climb Championship. The car was later sold to Dr. Dawie S. Gous of South Africa, who used it to win the 1964 South African Sports Car Championship. The Spyder continued its successful African racing career under Clive van Buuren and Stan Wesselink before being sold to Tony Norris.

In the late 1970s, the RS61 was sold to California Porsche-Audi Inc. and exported to the U.S. It received competitive upgrades, including a 911-type steering rack, annular disc brakes, and a larger, more powerful Type 574/5 four-cam engine (90403) that remains in the car today. The RS61 passed through the hands of elite American Porsche collectors, including Jeffrey Keiner, A. Dano Davis of the famous Brumos Collection, and Stanley Gold.

Specifications and Condition

The 1961 Porsche 718 RS 61 Spyder is powered by a 1.7L Type 547/3 four-cam engine and features a 5-speed manual transmission. It has a documented ownership and history since new and is eligible for the most exclusive rallies, vintage racing, and concours d'elegance. The car was expertly maintained in a premier North American collection from 2013 and was meticulously preserved to look just as it did when Hermann Müller first raced it in 1961.

Upon arriving at Canepa, the car was given the complete 'Canepa Difference' treatment, including a thorough mechanical and cosmetic process. The silver metallic paint was carefully polished, and the interior surfaces were treated with equal respect. The car was mechanically inspected and found to have a complete clean bill of health, with subsequent test drives confirming its condition.

Racing History and Eligibility

The 1961 Porsche 718 RS 61 Spyder has a distinguished global racing history, with numerous wins and podium finishes in the FIA European Hill Climb Championship, the South African Sports Car Championship, and other prestigious events. The car remains eligible for virtually every premier vintage race and exclusive rally worldwide, ensuring the new owner can enjoy it to the fullest on the most prestigious automotive events.

With its documented provenance, distinguished global racing history, and exceptional rarity, this 1961 Porsche 718 RS 61 Spyder is an exceptionally rare and sought-after piece of Porsche motorsport history.

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