Beck Logo
Home Products Info About Us Contact Pre-Owned Inventory Order Parts

HISTORY

The Evolution of the BECK® Spyder (1983 – Present)

Since its inception in 1983, the BECK® Spyder has undergone significant transformations, improving in design, engineering, and manufacturing techniques. Below is a breakdown of the Spyder’s production history across three generations.

Generation 1 (1983 – 1994)

Note: Overlap with Generation 2 from 1988 to 1994

  • Manufactured in California, with approximately 90% sold as base body/chassis kits for DIY assembly.
  • Early assembly was done by Chuck Beck before Randy Beck took over, allowing Chuck and Kevin Hines to establish manufacturing for the Gen 2 model in Brazil.
  • Only about a dozen “turn-key” Spyders were assembled during this period.
  • Features were highly customizable, with 16 optional items such as windshields, wheels, tires, lights, and exhaust systems.
Distinguishing Features of Generation 1:
  • Lift-off front hood (no hinges)
  • Universal marine flip-style gas cap (optional)
  • Motorcycle-style turn signal and taillight lenses with custom alloy bezels (optional)
  • Door hinges repurposed from Ford Pinto hood hinges
  • Doors swung completely outside the body and did not stay open
  • MGTD-style door latches mounted on the inner face of the door
  • Flat rear firewall behind seats
  • Optional battery box located at the rearmost frame rail
  • VW-style bellhouse cradle engine mount

Generation 2 (1988 – 2015)

Manufactured initially in São Paulo, Brazil, and later in Jarinu, Brazil. In 2010, all paint and interior work transitioned to the Indiana-based factory while assembly was split between California and Texas facilities. By 2015, all paint, interior work, and assembly were completed in Indiana.

Key Improvements in Generation 2:
  • Chassis paint upgraded to epoxy (previously powder-coated)
  • Front hood hinge and prop rod added
  • New gas filler cap design
  • Optional top and side curtains introduced
  • Steering column updated to Porsche 924 spline
  • Factory-made wiring harness with glass fuses
  • Rear seat recess added for improved legroom
  • VW interior door handle added for clamshell release
  • Stronger engine mounts
  • Early models featured improved rod shifters; later models introduced cable shifters
  • Modernized door hinges and integrated side door pockets
  • Door check strap added to keep doors open (short run of hinges with internal springs instead)
  • VW box-style door latch and striker added
  • Interior door pull cable introduced (later replaced with optional inner door handles)
  • Brazilian-sourced conical taillights with amber front and red rear (original-style lights became an option in later years)
  • Standardized battery tray box near the rear passenger-side firewall
  • Extruded aluminum windshield frame with top latch hardware
  • Turn signal switch updated mid-production (early models had brass horn button on dash and single-arm turn signal with dimmer button on stalk)
  • VDO (Brazil) gauges standardized with KPH speedometer (later discontinued, leading to multiple gauge manufacturers in late Gen 2 production)
  • Emergency brake located deep between seats with Beetle-style handle

Generation 3 (2015 – Present) 

Manufactured entirely in Indiana, Generation 3 retains all the refinements of Generation 2 while incorporating modern enhancements.

Key Enhancements in Generation 3:
  • Front beam upgraded to Airkewld brand with Porsche 356-style adjusters and Delrin inserts
  • Factory Subaru prep option added
  • Gas cap updated to original size and style
  • Pedals upgraded to Wilwood standalone brake and clutch, throttle pedal changed to early 911 style, and hydraulic clutch standardized
  • Cable shifter upgraded to PBS style unit with a redesigned nosecone mount (best Spyder shifter to date)
  • Elevated e-brake for easier use, with the original style still available
  • Standardized four-wheel disc brakes
  • Master cylinder switched to a U.S.-available version, with the pedal board moved rearward 3/8″ for better ergonomics
  • Standardized wide-five wheel/brake package
  • Original-style oil cooler grill included
  • Self-holding rear prop rod added
  • Chassis painting switched back to powder-coating
  • Lower windshield track seal introduced
  • Interior door cable removed, with an improved release mechanism (optional handle still available)
  • German wool restoration-grade carpet
  • Standardized Cocomat floor mats
  • Leather upgraded to Katzkin
  • Original-style turn signals and taillights made standard
  • Revised clamshell shape with a lower fender profile, refined wheel well shape, and flat rear smile (original Beck tall-fender clamshell still available upon request)
  • Clamshell release upgraded to billet aluminum while maintaining the same location
  • VDO (India) gauges standardized again, featuring a digital odometer and GPS speedometer, with additional indicator symbols (battery, oil, park) per VDO requirements

The BECK® Spyder continues to evolve, staying true to its heritage while integrating modern engineering advancements. Whether you’re a purist or looking for modern performance, each generation offers something unique while maintaining the spirit of the original Spyder.

Beck Logo

Special Edition, Inc.

119 N. Liberty Drive, Bremen, Indiana 46506

(574) 546-4656 – Office

Home Products Info About Us Contact Pre-Owned Inventory Order Parts