Rare Porsche-powered 1962 Devin D Roadster (w/ startup)

A very rare 1962 Devin D roadster arriving at and leaving the 2021 San Marino Motor Classic at Lacy Park, where it won Second in Class (Volkswagen Custom Bodies). Produced by Devin Enterprises in El Monte, CA, the D was introduced in 1958 and sold as either a kit or a factory assembled car. It features fiberglass roadster bodywork and utilizes a Devin-designed ladder-type chassis and Volkswagen gearbox and suspension. Weighing around 1,180 pounds, it is powered by either a standard 1192-cc Volkswagen engine or a 1600-cc Porsche engine. This example, chassis no. DD9-17, is a factory built car powered by a modified Porsche 912 motor producing around 120 horsepower. One of around 46 Devin Ds built, it underwent a detailed restoration during which it was finished in its current Porsche Boxster silver paint.

The name "Devin D" sounds more like a radio show host than a car. But it's certainly catchy and not easy to forget. This car proves that the art of building lightweight sports cars wasn't something only the Europeans could master. Sure, it utilized VW/Porsche powertrain components, which may lead some to dismiss it as just another fiberglass kit car. But from its bespoke chassis to its lightweight bodywork, the D was built for performance, and Devin cars were no strangers to success in motorsports. It's unfortunate that so few units were produced, because I'm sure there are many car enthusiasts now who would love to get behind the wheel of one!

Would you add this rare Devin D to your collection? Leave a comment on YouTube and let me know!