Wendler-Porsche W/RS-001: Unveiling the Timeless Classic in Automotive History

Unique ONES - Step into the world of classic sports cars, and you'll find a piece of automotive history that not only showcases the emblem of Stuttgart's renowned manufacturer but also boasts a series of unique designs that once dominated the racing scene. Take, for instance, a classic 1960s sports car, a masterpiece crafted by Wendler Karosserie, a specialist hailing from Reutlingen. 

The Wendler-Porsche W/RS-001 was crafted by Wendler Karosserie, based on an improved spider chassis for Porsche ambition to compete in the 24-hour Le Mans race with closed GT cars. (Picture from: PF-Magazine)

This company, essentially an extended Porsche workbench, stands out as a pioneer in lightweight construction and racing bodies, earning admiration from global automotive enthusiasts. Established in 1840, Wendler Karosserie, initially rooted in carriage and carriage construction, evolved over the years. By 1923, the company had transitioned into producing automobile bodies, marked by their distinctive designs, either in one-off productions or small series. 

The Wendler-Porsche W/RS-001 was a Le Mans coupé, distinct with a fixed roof structure and optimized aerodynamics. (Picture from: PF-Magazine)

The reputation of "Karosserie Wendler" extended beyond Reutlingen, with streamlined bodies for BMW and contributions to test vehicles by aerodynamics pioneer Wunibald Kamm. Post-war, while other specialists struggled to adapt to modernity, Wendler thrived. It even ventured into building pontoon-style VW convertibles in Reutlingen, closely resembling the open Porsche 356. 

The Wendler-Porsche W/RS-001 powered by the third expansion stage of the four-cylinder Type 547 developed by Ernst Fuhrmann with vertical shaft drive, four overhead camshafts and double ignition. (Picture from: PF-Magazine)

Wendler's expertise in sophisticated lightweight construction and tailor-made bodies caught the attention of major players, including Porsche. The collaboration resulted in the production of 550 1500 RS Spyder bodies, solidifying Wendler's role as a key supplier.

The Wendler-Porsche W/RS-001 featured a design akin to the well-known 718 RS 60 Spyder up to the shoulder line. (Picture from: PF-Magazine)

Porsche, impressed by Wendler's capabilities, sought their expertise in designing a closed GT racing car, giving birth to the Wendler-Porsche W/RS-001. This partnership continued as Wendler manufactured 90 Spyder bodies made of light alloy for Porsche. The collaboration endured through the evolution from the 550 to the further developed 718, leading to the creation of the RS 60 and RS 61 models.

The Wendler-Porsche W/RS-001 stands as a testament to the artistry and ingenuity that define this era. (Picture from: PF-Magazine)

In 1961, Porsche aimed to compete in the 24-hour Le Mans race with closed GT cars, and Wendler stepped up to the challenge. The result was a Le Mans coupé, distinct with a fixed roof structure and optimized aerodynamics. The Wendler RS, based on an improved spider chassis, was born, and the goal was set – Le Mans 1961.

The Wendler-Porsche W/RS-001 based on an improved spider chassis, was born, and the goal was set – Le Mans 1961. (Picture from: PF-Magazine)

The Le Mans coupé featured a design akin to the well-known 718 RS 60 Spyder up to the shoulder line. However, what set it apart was the fixed roof structure, ending with the B-pillar and a rear window, optimizing aerodynamics with the "smallest tear-off cross section."

The Wendler-Porsche W/RS-001 while sat on display at the Automuseum Prototyp in Hamburg.. (Picture from: Dennis Matthies in Flickr)

Under the hood, the Wendler RS boasted the third expansion stage of the four-cylinder Type 547 engine. With vertical shaft drive, four overhead camshafts, and double ignition, this engine had evolved since its introduction in 1953, culminating in a 135 hp output at 7200 rpm in the W/RS-001. | XV7wt0pbnho |

As we delve into the intricacies of this classic sports car, it's clear that the Wendler-Porsche collaboration marked a significant chapter in automotive history. The melding of expertise, innovation, and a shared passion for racing resulted in a timeless masterpiece that continues to captivate enthusiasts worldwide. In the realm of classic sports cars, the Wendler-Porsche W/RS-001 stands as a testament to the artistry and ingenuity that define this era. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | PF-MAGAZINE | EGZOSTIVE ]

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