Part of James Dean's Porsche 550 Spyder found in Massachusetts from crash 65 years ago

(Courtesy of Don Ahearn)

(OAKDALE, N.Y.) Actor James Dean died 65 years ago in a car crash in his Porsche 550 Spyder, nicknamed "Little Bastard." Now a piece of that car has resurfaced in rural Massachusetts in the collection of Don Ahearn, according to a news release from Ahearn.

The original and complete transaxle was previously stored in a wooden crate for over 30 years.

It's difficult to trace parts from the vehicle because only the chassis, engine and transaxle received factory serial numbers.

According to the release and an archived website of the previous owner, no other documented, verifiable pieces from the car are known to exist. The original body/chassis was reported stolen in 1960 and the engine is reportedly in California, though it hasn't been verified or seen in decades.

Since its rediscovery, the transaxle has been mounted in a custom display stand that displays the transaxle's assembly as it would have been in the Spyder.

Sept. 30, 2020, marks the 65th anniversary of the legendary actor’s death.

See additional photos of the vehicle and supporting documentation here.

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