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Audi Rosemeyer
Audi Rosemeyer
Audi Rosemeyer
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Audi Rosemeyer
Overview
ManufacturerAudi AG
Production2000
DesignerStefan Sielaff
Body and chassis
ClassConcept vehicle
Body style2-door coupé
LayoutMid engine, quattro permanent four-wheel drive
Related
Powertrain
Engine8,004 cubic centimetres (488.4 cu in) WR16
Power output700 brake horsepower (520 kW)
760 newton-metres (560 lbf⋅ft)
Transmission6-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase2,911 mm (114.6 in)
Length4,539 mm (178.7 in)
Width1,920 mm (75.6 in)
Height1,240 mm (49 in)
Kerb weight1,607 kg (3,543 lb)[1]
Chronology
PredecessorAudi Avus quattro
SuccessorAudi Le Mans quattro

The Audi Rosemeyer[2] is a concept car built by Audi, shown initially at Autostadt and at various auto shows throughout Europe during 2000. It featured a polished aluminum body inspired by 1930s Auto Union racecars, and a mid mounted WR16 engine that would later be used in the Bugatti Veyron.

Information

[edit]

The Rosemeyer combined elements of modern design with styling strongly resembling the former Auto Union "Silver Arrows" Grand Prix racers, namely their 16-cylinder car driven by Bernd Rosemeyer, after which the car is named.[3] The concept is also highly reminiscent of the "Type 52" design study penned by Dr. Ferdinand Porsche and Dr. Erwin Komenda in the 1930s as a possible road going version of the Silver Arrows, which never saw production.[4]

The Rosemeyer was powered by a naturally aspirated 8.0L mid-mounted WR16 engine developing 700 hp (522 kW; 710 PS), and featured Audi's quattro permanent four-wheel drive system.[5] The engine had previously been used in the Bentley Hunaudières concept, introduced a year earlier.[6] The Rosemeyer was ultimately deemed unfit for production, both because of extremely high projected production costs, and Audi's unwillingness to create in-house competition with Lamborghini, which Audi had purchased during the 1990s.[citation needed] In some ways, Audi's Gallardo-based R8 could be considered the Rosemeyer's successor, as it was derived from Audi's next supercar concept, the Le Mans quattro. In other ways, the Bugatti Veyron could be seen as the Rosemeyer's successor, drawing some design elements and the WR16 engine from the Rosemeyer. The top speed was estimated to be 350 km/h (217.5 mph), though it couldn't be tested as the car wasn't functional.

Images

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References

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Audi Rosemeyer

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from Grokipedia
The Audi Rosemeyer is a one-off developed by the German automaker and unveiled on June 1, 2000, at the visitor center in , , as a tribute to the pre-war Silver Arrow racing cars of the 1930s and named after the legendary Grand Prix driver , who achieved numerous speed records and victories with before his death in 1938. This retro-futuristic luxury sports was never intended for production but served as a design study to showcase Audi's engineering prowess, blending historical influences with advanced technology, including an all-aluminum body and innovative features like camera-based side mirrors. Inspired by the aerodynamic forms of the Type C racers and elements of the contemporary , the Rosemeyer was crafted under the direction of Audi design chief Stefan Sielaff, with a focus on evoking the era while incorporating modern and materials. The car's exterior features a low-slung, polished aluminum body with flowing lines, a prominent vertical radiator grille reminiscent of 1930s Auto Unions, xenon headlights concealed behind sliding panels, and a panoramic for enhanced visibility. Its minimalist interior emphasizes functionality with fire-resistant and leather bucket seats, adjustable racing pedals, a four-spoke , analog , and high-quality finishes in carbon fiber and aluminum, creating a cockpit-like environment suited for high-performance driving. At the heart of the Rosemeyer is a mid-mounted, naturally aspirated 8.0-liter —shared in form with the and later realized in the —producing approximately 700 horsepower and 561 lb-ft of torque, paired with Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive system and a six-speed with open-gated shifter. This powertrain enabled a projected top speed of 217 mph (350 km/h) and acceleration from in under 4 seconds, though the car remained non-functional as a static display . With dimensions of 178.7 inches in length, 75.6 inches in width, and 48.8 inches in height on a 114.6-inch , the Rosemeyer exemplified Audi's aluminum spaceframe expertise, weighing 3,543 pounds (1,607 kg) while prioritizing lightweight construction and dynamic proportions. The toured European auto shows following its debut, influencing later designs and underscoring the brand's heritage in motorsport innovation.

Development

Background and Inspiration

The Audi Rosemeyer concept car drew its primary inspiration from the legendary Auto Union Type C racing cars of the 1930s, which were pivotal in the era of dominance known as the . These rear-engined vehicles, developed by AG—a predecessor entity to modern —featured innovative mid-mounted V16 engines and achieved remarkable speeds on racetracks across , symbolizing engineering prowess and national prestige during the pre-World War II period. Central to this heritage was driver , Auto Union's star racer, who piloted the Type C to multiple world land speed records between 1936 and 1938, including a 10-mile flying start mark and speeds exceeding 400 km/h in streamlined configurations. Rosemeyer's daring exploits, such as warming up to 430 km/h on the , elevated the ' mystique, but his career ended tragically on January 28, 1938, during a record attempt near when his Type C was caught in a sudden gust of wind, leading to a fatal crash. This poignant backstory of triumph and sacrifice underscored the human element in Auto Union's racing legacy. As the legal successor to through its acquisition of the trademarks and historical assets in the postwar era, sought to honor this heritage with the Rosemeyer concept unveiled in 2000 at the opening of , its dedicated brand experience center in . The project served as a modern tribute, blending the streamlined aesthetics and rear-engine philosophy of the racers with contemporary materials and all-wheel-drive technology, reflecting 's ongoing commitment to its roots amid reflections on a century of automotive innovation.

Creation and Engineering

The Audi Rosemeyer was conceived in the late 1990s within Audi's studios as a to the brand's prewar heritage, with development culminating in its finalization and unveiling in 2000 at the opening of the Group's visitor center in , . The project was overseen by Audi's and teams, who collaborated closely with the broader —Audis parent company—for integrating shared advanced platform elements, including architecture derived from group-wide research. A primary engineering challenge involved adapting a naturally aspirated configuration without turbocharging to achieve high performance while maintaining refinement, drawing on prototype developments across the following its 1998 acquisition of and its V12 expertise. Engineers focused on optimizing the mid-mounted engine's integration with Audi's quattro all-wheel-drive system, ensuring balanced dynamics in a rear-mid layout inspired by the 1930s racers. This required innovative solutions for packaging a high-displacement power unit (8.0 liters) in a compact , prioritizing management and lightweight materials to handle projected speeds exceeding 200 mph. The prototype was constructed as a non-functional showpiece to highlight aesthetic and conceptual elements, incorporating hand-formed aluminum body panels for and aesthetic homage to silver arrow designs, complemented by carbon fiber reinforcements for weight reduction and enhanced performance potential. This construction approach allowed the Rosemeyer to serve as a functional for future technologies, though it remained a one-off without production intent.

Design and Features

Exterior Styling

The Audi Rosemeyer features a hand-formed body constructed from brushed aluminum with a gleaming matt finish, directly evoking the polished exteriors of the "Silver Arrows" racing cars. This material choice not only pays homage to historical racers but also contributes to a retro-futuristic aesthetic through its smooth, flowing lines and precise geometry, which blend influences with modern minimalism. The overall silhouette is that of a low-slung two-seat , with a height of just 1,240 mm and a long of 2,910 mm paired with short overhangs to emphasize a powerful, elongated stance reminiscent of grand prix machines. Aerodynamically refined elements define the Rosemeyer's profile, including an integrated fender design via high, upward-curving wheel arches that house giant , creating a racer-like presence with semi-circular cutouts that expose the large-diameter drilled discs. The nose section incorporates boldly shaped air inlets and a compact arrangement of xenon headlights behind flush-fitting clear glass covers and sliding metal panels, optimizing airflow while maintaining a sleek, low-drag form suitable for high-speed stability. At the rear, the continues this efficiency with a domed roofline transitioning into a tapered tail, further enhancing the car's streamlined proportions. Distinctive visual cues include a massive single-frame radiator grille at the front, a signature element that nods to the upright, imposing grilles of the original Type C racers while introducing Audi's emerging of the era. The car's proportions are scaled up from the historical Type C, resulting in an overall length of 4,540 mm and width of 1,920 mm, which amplifies the original's compact, aggressive footprint into a more imposing modern interpretation. It debuted in a signature silver-toned aluminum finish to capture the metallic sheen of pre-war , with the brushed surface providing subtle variations in light reflection across prototypes and displays.

Interior and Technology

The interior of the Audi Rosemeyer embodies a minimalist, racing-inspired aesthetic, emphasizing functionality and purity in line with its 1930s heritage. The cabin adopts a strict two-seater configuration, with no provisions for rear passengers, to prioritize driver focus and lightweight construction. The seats are high-quality -upholstered designs, providing firm support suited for high-performance driving, while the overall trim combines brushed aluminum panels, carbon fiber elements, and premium for a refined yet spartan feel. The features a brushed aluminum instrument panel housing a series of analog dials for essential readouts, evoking the era's mechanical gauges without modern digital overlays. A simple four-spoke steering wheel positioned at 90-degree intervals, positioned for optimal , complements the driver-centric layout, with adjustable pedals allowing customization for different driver sizes. Technology within the Rosemeyer remains understated to maintain its retro purity, featuring more physical dials and switches than electronic interfaces, including a center-console-mounted gearshift lever for the six-speed and camera-based systems replacing traditional side and rear mirrors by projecting views onto monitors. Basic climate controls and instrumentation prioritize mechanical reliability over advanced multimedia systems, aligning with the 's homage to pre-war . Safety features draw from motorsport influences, with the interior lined in fire-resistant quilted material, similar to that used in race cars and cockpits, to enhance occupant protection in a high-speed environment. The open-gated shifter and exposed aluminum structure further underscore the car's track-ready ethos, though no deployable roll bars or specialized audio systems were incorporated, keeping the focus on essential performance elements. This driver-focused setup, with controls clustered for quick access, reinforces the Rosemeyer's blend of historical tribute and modern execution.

Specifications

Powertrain

The Audi Rosemeyer features a mid-mounted 8.0-liter naturally aspirated , a configuration developed by as part of its early work on high-performance powerplants that later influenced the . This engine delivers 700 horsepower (710 PS) and 561 lb-ft (760 Nm) of , emphasizing raw power and high-revving capability for exceptional straight-line . Power is routed through a six-speed manual transmission with an open-gated shifter, paired to Audi's permanent quattro all-wheel-drive system for optimal traction and handling balance. The components were adapted from existing platforms, ensuring robust integration with the concept's aluminum spaceframe while maintaining the brand's signature all-wheel grip. The powertrain runs on premium unleaded fuel, with design priorities focused on dynamic performance rather than fuel economy, reflecting the concept's role as a halo showcase for Audi's engineering prowess.

Dimensions and Performance

The Audi Rosemeyer concept car boasts compact, performance-oriented dimensions designed to evoke the low-slung profile of its Auto Union inspirations, with a length of 4,540 mm, width of 1,920 mm, height of 1,240 mm, and wheelbase of 2,910 mm. These proportions enhance aerodynamic efficiency for high-speed stability. The vehicle's curb weight is approximately 1,600 kg, achieved through an aluminum body construction that emphasizes lightweight rigidity without compromising structural integrity. This aluminum-intensive design aligns with Audi's focus on to reduce while maintaining high torsional , supporting the car's dynamic capabilities. Projected performance figures highlight the Rosemeyer's potential, with from estimated at approximately 3.6 seconds and a top speed exceeding 217 mph (350 km/h). These estimates stem from the mid-mounted W16 engine's 700 horsepower, contributing to rapid straight-line speed as detailed in the powertrain specifications. Handling is optimized for track-like grip through Audi's quattro permanent all-wheel-drive system, which distributes torque dynamically to all four wheels for superior traction. The setup pairs with a sophisticated suspension tuned for agile cornering and an advanced that minimizes body roll. Braking performance relies on large ventilated disc brakes, providing robust stopping power proportional to the car's velocity.

Reception and Legacy

Initial Reception

The Audi Rosemeyer debuted on June 1, 2000, at Audi's visitor center in , , where it emerged as the centerpiece of the opening ceremonies, captivating attendees with its dramatic presentation under spotlights in a darkened pavilion. This unveiling, without an initial official , immediately sparked widespread interest, positioning the vehicle as a bold homage to Audi's racing heritage from the 1930s. Media coverage in 2000 highlighted the Rosemeyer's audacious retro-futuristic aesthetic and engineering prowess, with outlets like Top Gear hailing it as "bonkers" and a "shining example of brilliant lunacy" for its gleaming aluminum body and projected 217 mph top speed, which seemed otherworldly in an era predating hypercars like the . Similarly, Auto Motor und Sport praised it as a courageous design exercise intended purely as a showpiece, emphasizing its emotional appeal and technical ambition without production intent. The concept's exclusive, one-off nature drew comparisons to elite supercars of the time, underscoring Audi's intent to revive its storied legacy through innovative sculpture-like automotive art. Public and industry reactions fueled speculation about potential limited-series production—rumored at 50 to 100 units starting at €250,000—though quickly clarified it as a non-functional meant solely to inspire. Following its premiere, the Rosemeyer toured various European auto shows in 2000, amplifying its buzz and solidifying its status as a provocative statement on 's heritage and future capabilities.

Influence and Cultural Impact

The Audi Rosemeyer's and all-wheel-drive architecture directly influenced the development of the Veyron's , as the concept's 8.0-liter naturally aspirated unit served as the foundational for the Veyron's quad-turbocharged W16, producing over 1,000 horsepower. This connection stemmed from Audi's ownership of within the , where assets from the 2000 Rosemeyer project were transferred to under CEO Piëch's directive to create a hypercar, positioning the Rosemeyer as an early developmental precursor. Within Audi's brand legacy, the Rosemeyer exemplified the company's "Vorsprung durch Technik" philosophy—emphasizing advancement through innovative engineering—by blending retro-inspired aesthetics with cutting-edge technology, such as its advanced Quattro system. This approach paved the way for subsequent production models, notably serving as a stylistic and conceptual predecessor to the , which debuted in 2006 and adopted similar mid-engine layouts and performance-oriented design cues. The Rosemeyer has permeated through its appearances in automotive media and video games, often symbolizing retro-futurism that fused pre-war streamlining with modern supercar aggression. Featured in outlets like Top Gear for its bold homage to heritage, it has also appeared in racing simulations such as German Street Racing, where players experience its hypothetical high-speed capabilities. In contemporary contexts, the Rosemeyer continues to highlight 's pre-war roots amid the shift to electric vehicles, with occasional displays at key events like the 2020 anniversary exhibition at Forum , underscoring its role in bridging historical innovation with modern trends.

References

  1. https://www.motor1.com/news/149715/concept-we-forgot-audi-rosemeyer/
  2. https://www.topgear.com/car-news/concept/tgs-guide-concepts-audi-project-rosemeyer
  3. https://www.supercars.net/blog/2000-audi-rosemeyer-concept/
  4. https://www.ultimatecarpage.com/car/37/Audi-Rosemeyer.html
  5. https://www.topcarrating.com/2000-audi-rosemeyer-concept.php
  6. https://www.audi.com/en/sport/motorsport/motorsport-history/02-silver-arrows/
  7. https://www.carbodydesign.com/archive/2007/01/11-audi-rosemeyer-concept/6/
  8. https://www.hagerty.com/media/maintenance-and-tech/16-cylinders-and-270-mph-in-1938-the-auto-union-v-16-was-an-audacious-engineering-feat/
  9. http://motorsportmemorial.org/focus.php?db=ct&n=208
  10. https://www.audi.com/en/company/profile/audi-tradition/company-history/
  11. https://www.drive.com.au/caradvice/design-review-audi-rosemeyer-concept-2000/
  12. https://carbuzz.com/audi-built-the-veyron-predecessor-back-in-2000/
  13. https://www.hagerty.com/media/automotive-history/why-audi-really-bought-lamborghini-in-1998/
  14. https://www.carbodydesign.com/archive/2007/01/11-audi-rosemeyer-concept/
  15. https://www.ultimatecarpage.com/spec/37/Audi-Rosemeyer.html
  16. https://lignesauto.fr/?p=16470
  17. https://www.auto-motor-und-sport.de/verkehr/audi-rosemeyer-concept-und-das-neue-tt-design-25-jahre-wirkt-die-studie-nach/
  18. https://www.story-cars.com/2000-audi-project-rosemeyer-concept
  19. https://www.audiworld.com/articles/audi-rosemeyer-concept-previewed-the-bugatti-veyron-years-before-it-debuted/
  20. https://grassrootsmotorsports.com/news/rate-it-audi-r8-there-was-projekt-rosemeyer/
  21. https://www.igcd.net/vehicle.php?id=5671
  22. https://www.automotiveworld.com/news-releases/20-years-of-audi-forum-ingolstadt-exhibition-and-digital-services-to-mark-anniversary-year/
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