We all have a soft spot for weird, old classic cars, and Audi’s Auto Union Type 52 is no exception. Originally designed in the 1930s as a road-going version of the successful Type 22 Grand Prix race car, this unique supercar never made it past the design phase. However, Audi has decided to bring this special vehicle back to life for the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed, giving us a glimpse of what could have been.
Audi Revives the Auto Union Type 52
Audi commissioned Crosthwaite & Gardner to recreate the Type 52 from scratch, using original sketches and blueprints. The project took over a year to complete, with every aspect of the car custom-made to match the original design.
A Powerful Engine Upgrade
The Type 52 boasts a mid-mounted, supercharged 16-cylinder engine that delivers an impressive 512 horsepower, a significant upgrade from the estimated 200 horsepower of the original design. Paired with a manual transmission, this powerhouse propels the car to new heights of performance.
Retro Design with Modern Flair
Step inside the Type 52, and you’ll find a three-seat layout reminiscent of the classic McLaren F1. The interior features old-school cloth seats, lacquered wood paneling, and throwback gauges, maintaining a retro feel while incorporating modern technology for a unique driving experience.
Goodwood Festival of Speed Debut
Audi plans to showcase the Type 52 concept at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed, with racing legends Tom Kristensen and Hans-Joachim “Strietzel” Stuck taking the wheel. It will be an exciting opportunity to see this stunning one-off in action, paying homage to the car’s racing roots.
Conclusion
The Auto Union Type 52 may have been a forgotten gem from the past, but Audi’s decision to resurrect this classic car has reignited interest in its unique design and performance capabilities. With a blend of retro styling and modern engineering, the Type 52 concept is sure to turn heads at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, capturing the hearts of classic car enthusiasts everywhere.