The post-war DKW cars were quite similar in construction and design to the pre-war models. The German market accepted this since there was a shortage on affordable motorization, but in order to survive DKW needed to get in touch with the future. To revive the brand image a fresh looking, attractive and youthful car was developed: the 1000Sp.
It meant an abrupt breach with the past and a firm look ahead, adopting the US American space age style complete with tailfins but downsized to European proportions. The result was typical to the era of the Wirtschaftswunder and as strikingly beautiful as it was feminine, a cute car with lots of charisma. Though pleasing as it was, its outdated mechanics combined with its high price made it hard to sell.
These days the AutoUnion 1000Sp makes an interesting and original classic car: it combines now obsolete 2-stroke technology with an appearance typical to the 1950s. It finds enthusiasts around the world, though its still affordable to buy and to maintain. I especially like its endearing shape, as I hope you will too after taking this tour around this special little German car.
