The "T-Bird" from DKW. This AutoUnion Roadster, only built around 1,600 times by Baur in Stuttgart, is one of our most unusual projects. We are restoring this extraordinary classic car for a lover of 2-stroke vehicles and are trying to return the car to its original condition together with him. Unfortunately, this classic car also came to us disassembled and incomplete. The hand-made body from Baur had large tolerances and generous, factory-made work with tin. Smaller adjustments such as converting to 12V or modern LED taillights serve to improve safety. Who wants to turn left at an unregulated intersection with a red flashing light powered by 6V combined with the brake light these days...?
Encyclopedia
The DKW Auto Union 1000SP Roadster is a remarkable automobile produced by the German brand DKW from 1957 to 1965. This roadster belongs to the family of Auto Union 1000 models and has an important place in the history of the German automobile industry.
The DKW Auto Union 1000SP Roadster was first presented at the International Motor Show in Frankfurt in 1957 and immediately caused a stir. This model was an open two-seater built on a tubular space frame with a self-supporting body. Its timeless design was characterized by clean lines and attractive aesthetics. Because of its strong resemblance to the 1955 Ford Thunderbird, the 1000SP was also known as the "narrow-gauge Thunderbird".
Under the hood of the 1000SP was a 981cc, three-cylinder, two-stroke engine originally from the previous model. This engine produced 55 hp and enabled a top speed of around 140 km/h, which was respectable for the time.
The interior of the DKW 1000SP was simple and functional, with comfortable seats and a simple dashboard. Despite its sporty orientation, the roadster offered enough space for the driver and passenger.
The DKW Auto Union 1000SP Roadster was primarily aimed at the European market and was produced in limited numbers. Nevertheless, it enjoyed great popularity among lovers of open sports cars.
The 1000SP was also used in various racing events and achieved some notable successes. Its light weight and agile handling made it a popular racing car of its time.
Today, only a few of the approximately 1,600 examples of the DKW Auto Union 1000SP remain. The poor build quality of the bodywork and the subsequent rejection of the two-stroke engine meant that many of these small and compact roadsters ended up in the scrapyard. This model remains a symbol of the automotive history of DKW and Auto Union, now known under the name Audi.
