Audi is reviving the Auto Union Type 52 fast sports car, which was inspired by Le Mans racing drivers

The Auto Union Type 52 fast sports car was designed as a road version of the Auto Union Grand Prix racing cars of the time and at the time never made it past paper. However, the original project name hints at the manufacturer’s hopes, as it means “fast sports car” and puts the emphasis on what should actually be its defining characteristic: speed.

Since its unveiling at the Goodwood Festival of Speed ​​earlier this year, the fast sports car has become an award-winning car, winning Bespoke Car of the Year at the 2024 International Historic Motoring Awards. Audi Tradition worked with Crosthwaite & Gardiner to bring the concept to life and Timo Witt, Audi’s Head of Historic Vehicle Collection, worked closely with them to see the project to its completion. Car design news spoke with Witt to learn more about this momentous 90-year-old dream.

News about car design: Why did Audi think it was the right time to bring the “fast sports car” to life?

Timo Witt: To be honest, the project took quite a long time. We know each other