1959 Auto Union 1000 SP
Highlights
- Rare model with only 5,000 coupes produced worldwide
- Comprehensive engine and gearbox rebuild in 2017
- Fantastic design with a superb colour scheme
The Appeal
The Auto Union 1000 SP is a testament to the innovative spirit of the late 1950s and early 1960s, embodying the adventurous essence of its era. Born from the legacy of Auto Union, a precursor to the modern Audi, this model holds a special place in automotive history. The company's bold approach to car design and engineering is vividly expressed in the 1000 SP, a vehicle that merges the aesthetic appeal of American cars of the period with German engineering prowess.
Its production, spanning from 1958 to 1965, was limited, making the 1000 SP a rare find today. With only 5,000 coupes and 1,640 convertibles made, it’s an unusual classic that attracts attention wherever it goes.
Its production, spanning from 1958 to 1965, was limited, making the 1000 SP a rare find today. With only 5,000 coupes and 1,640 convertibles made, it’s an unusual classic that attracts attention wherever it goes.
The distinctiveness of the Auto Union 1000 SP is immediately apparent in its design and colour scheme. Clearly drawing inspiration from the iconic Ford Thunderbird, the car features a striking orange body complemented by a white roof, a combination that few cars can pull off. This unique colour palette, along with the car's extensive chrome and 1950s American stylistic cues, makes it stand out in any collection or on the road.
Aesthetics aside, the 1000 SP has another surprise under the bonnet in the form of its three cylinder two stroke engine, paired with front wheel drive. A car that smells as good as it looks and sounds - not a phrase we use often! From the moment you first hear the distinctive sound it’s hard not to smile and it delivers an enjoyable two-stroke driving experience that we can’t help but love.
The Auto Union 1000 SP's rarity, coupled with its distinctive design, colour, and the fantastic choice of a two-stroke engine, makes it a standout classic car. Thanks to being stored indoors since its import from South Africa in 2021 it’s as solid as they come and with a comprehensive mechanical restoration (including an engine rebuild and new gearbox) in 2017 it's ready for the road.
The History and Paperwork
- Imported from South Africa in 2021
- MOT and Tax exempt
- V5 present and correct
- Invoice for a complete engine rebuild in 2017, including pistons and rebore
- Gearbox replaced in 2017
- New exhaust and suspension/steering components in 2017
- Invoices from 2017-2020 for various maintenance including tyres and bumper refurbishment
- Comes with all import paperwork
The Condition
- White leather seats in very good condition
- Door cards present well overall with some imperfections
- Superb 50’s styling
- Flat floor pan with column shifter makes for a spacious felling cabin
- Headlining is generally in good condition but does show some discolouration
- Dashboard and steering wheel in good condition for age
- Some non-original switches/buttons
- Supremely comfortable ride
- Orange body with white roof
- Distinctive 50’s American style design looks fantastic
- Paintwork has a good lustre, but shows cracking and touch ups
- Bumpers present well overall, with a minor dent in the front
- Chrome trim is complete with room for improvement
- Window seals show extensive perishing
- All four wheels in good condition; one missing centre cap decal
- Car is complete with light lenses, badges, trim etc
- A superb looking car that really creates an impression
The Mechanics
- 981cc two-stroke 3-cylinder engine
- Manual gearbox replaced in 2017
- New exhaust system and many new suspension/steering components in 2017
- Presents as mechanically excellent, starts easily and drives well
- Distinctive two-stroke engine sound
- Engine and engine bay present very well
- Underbody in excellent condition, benefitting from the South African climate and dry storage
- Invoices for extensive mechanical restoration with little use since
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check, to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery.
Vehicle specification
- Year 1966
- Make Auto Union
- Model 1000 SP
- Colour Orange
- Odometer 5,319 Miles
- Engine size 981
Listing Details
- Seller Type Private
- Town Swindon
- Location Wiltshire
- Country United Kingdom
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