The Audi Front 225 is not just a car; it’s a piece of automotive history that combines cutting-edge design with innovative engineering. Introduced in the 1930s, this rare front-wheel-drive masterpiece is a testament to Audi’s dedication to luxury and performance. With its sleek lines and powerful engine, the Front 225 became an iconic model, setting the stage for Audi’s future success. Join us as we dive into the fascinating story of this classic, from its creation to its legacy in the world of vintage cars.

The Evolution of the Audi Front 225

The Audi Front 225’s story began with the transition from rear-wheel-drive to front-wheel-drive cars. Before the release of this model, Audi primarily built rear-wheel-drive cars. However, the Front 225 marked a significant shift in automotive engineering. Featuring an Inline-6 engine from the Wanderer W245, it was able to generate 50 horsepower at 3,300 rpm, which was quite powerful for its time. This engine was later upgraded in 1937 to 55 horsepower at 3,800 rpm, allowing the car to offer even better performance.

However, it wasn’t just the powertrain that changed over the years. The design and features of the car evolved too. Initially launched with a body style that resembled other luxury cars of the era, the Audi Front 225 soon became known for its sleek lines and impressive attention to detail. The most notable changes included the addition of a larger, more robust 6-cylinder engine, giving it more power and a more refined driving experience.

Video

Check out this video from Retro Classica Essen 2015 featuring the 1935 Audi Front 225 Roadster. Watch to explore both the exterior and interior of this classic beauty!

Design and Bodywork: Craftsmanship Behind the Audi Front 225

One of the most remarkable aspects of the Audi Front 225 is the craftsmanship that went into its design. Bodywork was handled by Auto Union’s Horch-Werk facility, which also produced the bodies for some of the most iconic cars of the period. The front-wheel-drive layout was housed in a meticulously designed body that not only looked beautiful but was also aerodynamically efficient.

Standard versions of the car came in various body styles, including a 4-seat sport sedan, a 6-window limousine, and even a 2-seat Cabriolet. However, the rarest and most desirable variant was the 2-seat Spezial Roadster, produced in very limited numbers. Coachworks Erdmann et Rossi crafted around 25 examples of the Spezial Roadster, each one a stunning piece of automotive art.

The smooth lines and aerodynamically optimized body made the Audi Front 225 stand out on the road. It was a car that combined the best of luxury and sportiness. At the time, the car was a technical marvel, and its beauty was only enhanced by the flawless construction methods used by Auto Union’s design team.

The CMC Audi Front 225 Roadster Model

Fast-forward to today, and the Audi Front 225 Roadster continues to captivate enthusiasts and collectors alike. CMC, a company known for creating highly detailed and hand-assembled miniature models, has created a model of this iconic car that exemplifies craftsmanship and attention to detail. The CMC M-075B Audi Front 225 Roadster is a stunning 1:18 scale model made from over 1,600 parts.

This hand-assembled model is available in three different two-tone color combinations, with each color bringing out the car’s elegance in a different way. The body is meticulously formed with a brilliant finish, and the model features authentic touches such as leather seats, a fully instrumented dashboard, and even a miniature version of the original radiator grille in high-quality metal construction. Every aspect of the model, from the windshield mirror to the swiveling metal bar for supporting the open hood, is crafted to reflect the true spirit of the original Audi Front 225 Roadster.

Technical Specifications of the Audi Front 225 Roadster

The original Audi Front 225 was a technical marvel of its time. Its engine, a Wanderer 6-cylinder in-line engine, provided 50 horsepower at 3,500 rpm, making it one of the most powerful cars of its era. The car’s top speed reached around 120 km/h, which was fast for a luxury car in the 1930s.

The car’s body was built to perfection, with a wheelbase of 3,100 mm and a total length that made it both elegant and practical. The Front 225’s design emphasized both comfort and performance, making it suitable for a wide range of drivers, from those looking for a leisurely cruise to those in search of more spirited driving experiences. The 225’s success was rooted in its well-balanced combination of power, elegance, and cutting-edge technology.

Audi’s Rise: The Birth of a Brand

The story of Audi is inseparable from that of August Horch, the company’s founder. After leaving the company he founded, Horch sought to start anew, and in 1909, he launched the “August Horch Automobilwerke GmbH.” However, after a legal battle over the use of the “Horch” name, he changed the name to “Audi,” a Latin imperative form of the verb “to listen,” which mirrored the sound of his name in German.

This marked the birth of Audi as we know it today. Audi, as part of Auto Union, went on to create some of the most significant automobiles in the world, with the Audi Front 225 playing a vital role in the company’s history. The Front 225 was one of Audi’s early forays into innovation, and it helped solidify the brand’s reputation for producing quality vehicles with a focus on performance and luxury.

The Audi Front 225 Today: A Collector’s Treasure

Today, the Audi Front 225 Roadster remains a highly sought-after collector’s item. With only 2,600 examples produced between 1935 and 1938, the rarity of the car only adds to its appeal. Collectors value the Front 225 for its timeless beauty, engineering excellence, and historical significance in the automotive world. The car’s unique place in Audi’s history makes it one of the most cherished vintage cars among collectors.

Conclusion: A Timeless Classic

The Audi Front 225 Roadster is more than just a vintage car; it is a testament to Audi’s innovation, craftsmanship, and vision for the future. From its stunning design to its impressive technical specifications, this car continues to inspire automotive enthusiasts and collectors. The story of the Audi Front 225 is a story of a brand’s commitment to excellence and a dedication to creating vehicles that stand the test of time.

The Front 225 Roadster will always be remembered as one of the true gems in the history of automotive design. Whether as a collectible model or as the original masterpiece, the Audi Front 225 continues to leave its mark on the automotive world, solidifying its place as one of the most beloved classic cars of all time.

Video

Check out this fascinating video on an Audi that was designed in the 1930s but built in 2024. Watch to see how modern technology brings this classic design to life!