Bernd Rosemeyer's Auto Union Type C - 1936 Nürburgring Grand Prix
This model car of the Auto Union Type C immortalizes one of the most revolutionary single-seaters in the history of Formula 1. Faithfully reproducing the car that dominated the Nürburgring Grand Prix in 1936 under the expert hands of Bernd Rosemeyer , this collector's item captures the essence of the golden age of German motorsport.
A true testament to the technical excellence of the 1930s, this replica is aimed at collectors passionate about automotive history and fans of legendary racing cars . It naturally finds its place in any collection dedicated to the great moments of European motorsport.
Characteristics of the model car
- Model: Auto Union Type C
- Brand: Auto Union
- Year: 1936
- Scale: 1/43rd
- Driver: Bernd Rosemeyer
- Race: Nürburgring Grand Prix
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Protective case included: Yes
The Auto Union Type C: technical revolution of 1936
The Auto Union Type C was born in 1936 in the context of the technological arms race between German manufacturers. Developed by engineer Ferdinand Porsche, this single-seater revolutionized the approach to automobile design by adopting a rear-mid-engine architecture, a first in the world of competition.
Powered by a supercharged 6-liter V16 engine developing over 520 horsepower, the C-Type boasted astonishing performance for its time. Its streamlined body and tubular chassis made it a veritable rolling laboratory, foreshadowing the innovations that would define the modern automobile. This bold design allowed speeds exceeding 340 km/h (210 mph) to be reached on the fast sections of European circuits.
The C-Type's success was immediate and spectacular, winning numerous Grand Prix races and setting several speed records. It perfectly embodied the pioneering spirit of the German automotive industry in the 1930s, constantly pushing the boundaries of what was possible.
Auto Union: strength in numbers
Auto Union was born in 1932 from the merger of four prestigious German car brands: Audi, DKW, Horch, and Wanderer. This strategic alliance, symbolized by the four intertwined rings of the logo, aimed to create an industrial giant capable of competing with the largest European manufacturers of the time.
In the 1930s, Auto Union quickly established itself as a major player in motorsport thanks to financial support from the German government and the technical expertise of Ferdinand Porsche. The brand developed a revolutionary approach to racing, prioritizing technical innovation over tradition. This philosophy was embodied in the creation of single-seaters with avant-garde concepts, including the famous Type A, B, C, and D series that would dominate European circuits.
Auto Union's commitment to racing extends beyond the sporting sphere to become a true laboratory of innovation. Technologies developed for racing quickly find their way into production vehicles, making the brand a pioneer in numerous technical fields.
Bernd Rosemeyer: the shooting star of the Nürburgring
The story of Bernd Rosemeyer and the Auto Union Type C at the 1936 Nürburgring Grand Prix remains one of the most memorable times in German motorsport. This 26-year-old, a former motorcyclist turned car driver, possessed a unique driving style perfectly suited to the unique handling of the rear-engined Auto Union cars.
On July 26, 1936, on the formidable Nürburgring circuit, which was over 22 kilometers long, Rosemeyer delivered a masterful demonstration of driving skills. Perfectly mastering the unpredictable reactions of his single-seater on the 176 bends of the "Ring", he distanced his opponents with disconcerting ease. His victory that day consolidated his reputation as "King of the Nürburgring" and established the Auto Union Type C as a legend.
This exceptional performance perfectly illustrates the perfect symbiosis between an exceptional driver and a revolutionary machine. Rosemeyer, with his intuitive understanding of the Auto Union's driving subtleties, transformed the car's apparent flaws into decisive advantages. His technique of deliberately inducing slight, controlled skids to negotiate tight bends fascinated spectators and terrified his competitors.
Tragically, this magical partnership between Rosemeyer and Auto Union came to an abrupt end in January 1938, during a highway speed record attempt. This early demise deprived motorsport of an exceptional talent and symbolically marked the end of Auto Union's golden age in competition.
Complete your collection of legendary model cars
This Auto Union Type C is a masterpiece for any collector passionate about the history of Formula 1 and the great moments of European motorsport. It fits naturally alongside other legendary Auto Union cars to recreate the epic story of this revolutionary brand.
Fans of 1930s racing cars will particularly enjoy combining it with the Mercedes W25 and other 1930s model cars to relive the intensity of the German-German duels of this golden era. This glorious period of motorsport, marked by unprecedented technical emulation, finds a faithful and exciting echo in this collection.
Whether you're a seasoned collector or a discerning enthusiast, this replica of Bernd Rosemeyer's Auto Union Type C represents much more than a mere model car. It embodies an entire chapter in automotive history, testifying to the creative audacity and technical excellence that characterized 1930s motorsport. Its place in your display case will allow it to interact with other legendary racing cars , creating a truly personal museum dedicated to the finest hours of world motorsport.
