1960 Porsche RS-60 Spyder
The descriptions of the Classic Cars in the Directory were partly generated or supplemented with the help of artificial intelligence (AI). The content may occasionally not always be entirely accurate or factually correct despite careful checking.
The Porsche RS-60 Spyder 1960 is a formidable machine with a striking design that has never failed to turn heads on the road. This iconic sports car was designed to maximize performance, speed, and agility, and features a range of technical components and features that showcase the brand's engineering prowess.
At its core, the Porsche RS-60 Spyder is powered by a 1,588 cc four-cylinder boxer engine that is capable of churning out 181 horsepower at 8,000 rpm. This engine is coupled with a five-speed manual transmission that provides a smooth and precise shift, giving drivers full control over the vehicle's power and speed.
The suspension system on this convertible race car is equally impressive, with a light and stiff chassis that is crafted from a combination of lightweight aluminum and high-quality steel. This ensures that the car remains incredibly agile, even at high speeds, while the front double-wishbone suspension and rear swing axle maintain excellent balance and stability through tight corners and on uneven terrain.
The RS-60 features disc brakes on all four wheels, which deliver impressive stopping power courtesy of the pill-shaped calipers and ventilated rotors. The car's wheels are lightweight alloy, with the rear wheels measuring in at an impressive 15 inches in diameter.
On the inside, the RS-60 is a study in minimalist design. The seating is extremely ergonomic, with bucket seats that keep the driver and passenger firmly in place during high-speed maneuvers. The sporty three-spoke steering wheel is covered in leather, providing a comfortable and secure grip.
Throughout the car, attention to detail and fine craftsmanship is evident. The dashboard features a central instrument cluster with large tachometer and speedometer dials, dual round fuel and oil gauges, and a clock. The overall effect is one of understated elegance, with a focus on functionality and performance.
In summary, the Porsche RS-60 Spyder 1960 remains one of the most impressive cars ever produced by the iconic brand. From its powerful engine and lightweight construction to its impressive handling and braking performance, every technical detail is carefully engineered to deliver an exhilarating driving experience that is difficult to match.
Milestones
- Introduction of Porsche 718 RS-60 Spyder in 1960 - Powered by a 1.6-liter flat-four engine producing 160 horsepower and capable of reaching speeds up to 140 mph - Won the 12 Hours of Sebring endurance race in March 1960 with Hans Herrmann and Olivier Gendebien at the wheel - Piloted by Stirling Moss and Dan Gurney to a second-place finish at the 1960 24 Hours of Le Mans - Set numerous endurance and speed records in the US and Europe throughout the year - Popularized the use of lightweight materials, such as magnesium and aluminum, in race car construction - Served as a predecessor to the iconic Porsche 917, which would later dominate endurance racing in the 1970s.Technical
- Engine: air-cooled, horizontally-opposed (flat) six-cylinder engine - Displacement: 1,587 cc (1.6 L) - Power output: 160 hp (119 kW) - Transmission: 5-speed manual - Top speed: 135 mph (217 km/h) - Suspension: independent wishbone and torsion bar suspension - Brakes: disc brakes on all four wheels - Weight: 1,500 lbs (681 kg) - Body: two-seater, open-top roadster - Materials: aluminum body panels and tubular steel frame - Wheelbase: 82.7 in (2,100 mm) - Length: 151.6 in (3,850 mm) - Width: 61.8 in (1,570 mm) - Height: 45.3 in (1,150 mm) - Fuel tank capacity: 21.1 gal (80 L) - Production numbers: only 15 were built for racing purposes.Related manufacturer
CLASSIC CAR MATCHER