The Auto Union 1000S is a well-known classic of automotive history, produced from 1958 to 1963. This car belongs to the generation of vehicles that exemplify the design and engineering prowess of the post-war era. This era saw some technical innovations and aesthetic developments reflected in models like the Auto Union 1000S. The Auto Union brand, later becoming Audi, played a significant role in the German automotive industry. A predecessor of this car is the DKW 3=6, which was also very popular in its time.
The Auto Union 1000S has a 981 cc three-cylinder two-stroke engine producing around 44 horsepower. This power was sufficient to propel the car to a top speed of about 125 km/h (78 mph). The vehicle also featured front-wheel drive, making it a technically advanced car for its time. Other notable technical features of the 1000S include a four-speed gearbox and drum brakes on all wheels. The car was designed and developed under the direction of Hanns Grewenig and engineer Friedrich Femotie, both crucial in integrating design and functionality.
The model shown here is a 1/18 scale replica of the Auto Union 1000S produced by the model company Revell. This model is made of high-quality plastic and metal, accurately reflecting the original details. Particularly striking is the two-tone paint scheme, with the upper part of the vehicle in elegant black and the lower part in stylish light grey. Delicate chrome details on bumpers, wheel arches, and window surrounds emphasize the authenticity and precision of this model. The door handles and exterior mirrors are also finished in chrome, showcasing the attention to detail poured into this model.
Among the standout technical details of the original is the radiator grille of the Auto Union 1000S, featuring a fine mesh pattern framed by chrome. The car's headlights are round and also encased in chrome. The interior of the Revell 1/18 scale model is styled in a red-brown tone, offering a detailed view of the dashboard and seats. A point illustrating the significance of this car in history is that it was manufactured at the time of Yuri Gagarin's first manned spaceflight, marking the start of a new era in space exploration. These historical references help to understand the era and importance of this vehicle within the context of that time.