The Wanderer W25K holds a special place in automotive history as the first design by Dr. Ferdinand Porsche’s new engineering design company who were engaged to design and supervise the building of the Wanderer’s supercharged engine. After the war, the company would become the Porsche AG that we know today.
Between 1936 and 1938, only 25 W25K Roadsters were built before production ceased at the outbreak of World War II. This example was acquired in 1945 by a U.S. Air Force colonel while stationed in Germany with the occupation forces. Later shipped back to the United States, it was regularly driven until the late 1960s, when it was placed in storage due to maintenance needs.
The car remained untouched for two decades before being purchased and imported to Australia by its current owner, a dedicated Porsche enthusiast who regards it as “Porsche design number 1” due to the engine being Porsche’s first design commission.
A full restoration was subsequently completed in Noosa, remaining faithful to original specifications, with the missing Wanderer badge sourced during a visit to Essen, Germany.
