We already knew Hedley Studios for its miniature recreations of legendary cars. But miniatures here don’t mean display-only models: these cars, built at about 80% of the original scale, are made to be driven. After tackling Bugatti, Ferrari, and Bentley, the Brits have taken on one of Porsche’s most iconic names in automotive history.
A Porsche 550 A Spyder with Porsche’s Blessing
The new arrival is called the 550 J, with J standing for Junior, and it reproduces the Porsche 550 A Spyder of 1956. Hedley Studios didn’t simply copy the lines from a few photos. Porsche officially validated the project, but more importantly opened its archives and provided original technical drawings so that the proportions and details could be as faithful as possible.
The body, crafted in carbon fiber, captures the look of the small German sports car at roughly 80% scale. The mechanics are, of course, far less faithful. Forget the famous flat-four of the real 550: the 550 J is electric. Its motor develops 11 hp, enough to reach 64 km/h (about 40 mph), while the battery provides a range of around 48 km (roughly 29 miles).
Those seeking something a bit more serious can opt for the RS pack. Power then rises to 22 hp, top speed climbs to 81 km/h (about 50 mph), and the range also reaches 81 km (about 50 miles). Hedley adds something truly spectacular for a machine weighing roughly 330 kg (about 730 lb): Brembo brakes with perforated discs and Bilstein adjustable dampers.
No Road-Going with the 550 J
Because this miniature Porsche is genuinely built to be driven, and even by two adults. However, you’ll need to pick the right setting carefully. Unlike some Hedley Studio creations that sit near the size of a Citroën Ami, the Porsche 550 J is not street-legal. You’ll need a property large enough to enjoy it, or take it to a race track.
That shouldn’t stop Hedley Studios from finding buyers for the 250 units planned. The customization options will be plentiful, including liveries inspired by historic Porsche race cars.
And of course the price. The 550 J starts at £69,500 before tax, about €80,000 before taxes. A sizable sum for what remains, objectively, a very large electric toy. But it all looks a little more reasonable when you consider the value of an authentic Porsche 550, whose finest examples now fetch multi‑million-dollar figures. And unlike the original, this one should be a bit less intimidating to park.
