Auto Union classic cars for sale

History of Auto Union

Auto Union was formed in 1932 in Chemnitz from the merger of DKW, Audi, Horch and Wanderer. Each brand retained its identity but specialised: DKW produced affordable front-wheel-drive cars, Wanderer focused on middle-class vehicles, and Horch catered to the luxury segment. The company quickly dominated the German market with a 22% share, making it the second largest after Opel. Ferdinand Porsche's racing cars for Auto Union between 1934 and 1937 set new benchmarks for innovation and speed, taking the European Grand Prix Championship with Bernd Rosemeyer in 1936. Post-WWII, the group dissolved. From its ashes rose both Audi and, in the GDR, Trabant, securing Auto Union’s legacy as both a technical pioneer and a bedrock of German automotive history.

Model History

DKW's Frontwagen series (F1 to F8), running from 1931 to 1942, was a trailblazer with its front-wheel-drive layout—an innovation ahead of its time for mass-produced vehicles. The Auto Union 1000 and 1000S followed in the 1950s and 1960s, picking up Audi’s heritage and continuing two-stroke engine development. Predecessor brands—like DKW and Horch—paved the way for these models, which would ultimately transition to modern Audi engineering in Ingolstadt. Successor vehicles continued the evolution, with Audi inheriting the technical DNA and spirit of innovation.

Highlights of Auto Union vehicles

Auto Union vehicles distinguished themselves with technical advancements like front-wheel drive and robust two-stroke engines. The racing cars—Types A to D—were at the forefront of Grand Prix technology. Consumer models, such as the Auto Union 1000, incorporated advanced features like three-cylinder engines and all-steel bodies. The four interconnected rings in the Auto Union logo symbolise the unique partnership of DKW, Audi, Horch and Wanderer.

Technical data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Among Auto Union classics, the racing cars developed by Ferdinand Porsche (Types A-D) are notable, having achieved remarkable success on pre-war circuits. Post-war, the Auto Union 1000S offered enhanced trim and improved fittings, making it a sought-after example for collectors. Limited production numbers and distinct mechanical features—such as early adoption of front-wheel drive—set these vehicles apart as collector targets.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

Auto Union vehicles, particularly the two-stroke engines, require routine and knowledgeable maintenance. Regular inspection of the oiling system is necessary due to premix lubrication in two-stroke power units. Bodywork may be prone to rust, especially in post-war steel-bodied cars. Replacement parts can prove difficult to source, especially for pre-war models and luxury variants from Horch. But the mechanical simplicity of early DKW models supports long-term usability with basic technical skill.

Engine and Performance, Transmission, Handling

The two-stroke, three-cylinder engines in Auto Union models, such as the 100S, provided responsive acceleration and reliable cruising at typical continental speeds, with reported top speeds around 80 mph. Thanks to their front-wheel-drive layout, even early Auto Unions offered surprisingly secure handling for their age, with stable road holding and straightforward transmission mechanics. Manual gearboxes are the norm, generally offering three or four-speed setups. The combination of lightweight build and front-wheel-drive results in easy cornering and surefootedness compared to their rear-driven contemporaries. - Auto Union 100S (1962): 3-cylinder, 2-stroke, 1000cc, over 50 hp, front-wheel drive, left-hand drive, 80 mph top speed.

• DKW F-series (F1-F8): Front-wheel drive, two-stroke engines, innovative for their time.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Auto Union vehicles boasted distinctive design solutions driven by their member brands: DKW contributed robust, minimalist interiors and practical body styles, while Horch introduced luxurious finishes with quality wood and fabrics. The 1000S, as a post-war model, showcases simple, clear lines and functional controls—typical traits of 1950s-60s German engineering. The four-ring logo, originated with Auto Union, remains a visual hallmark today on Audi vehicles. Accessories and period-appropriate options included sunroofs, additional chrome trim, and varied dashboard layouts across the different marques within Auto Union.

Other relevant features

Auto Union’s contribution to automotive engineering extends to motorsport, where their racing machines were at the technical cutting edge in the 1930s. Their vehicles bridged prewar and postwar German car design, reflecting both the resourceful constraints and innovations of their eras. The postwar transition to Audi carried forward technological and conceptual DNA that shaped modern German automobiles.

Summary

Auto Union represents a unique chapter in German automotive history, bringing together renowned names under a common vision of innovation and technical progress. Their pioneering front-wheel-drive systems, racing pedigree, and postwar resurgence through Audi make their vehicles distinctive additions to any classic car collection. With strong supply and demand interest, Auto Union classics offer historic value and mechanical authenticity for dedicated enthusiasts.