Description
Auto Union DKW 1000S | 1960
Highlights:
– Professionally repainted in 2018/2019 with rust prevention and panel work
– Engine overhauled in the past
– Imported from Sweden in 1972, with maintenance records available
– Interior in period-correct green/beige fabric
– Includes additional spare parts such as a windshield and rubber seals
The seller offers for sale this 1960 Auto Union DKW 1000S, a front-wheel-drive saloon representing one of the final evolutions of the DKW lineage before its merger into the Audi brand. With just 72,650 km indicated and a list of documented maintenance, this well-kept example combines 1960s engineering charm with recent refurbishment and usability. Powered by a 1.0-litre three-cylinder two-stroke petrol engine and mated to a manual gearbox, the car offers a characteristic driving experience unique to this pre-Audi era.
The car underwent professional rust repair to the lower rear wings and door bottoms, followed by a repaint in its original Uni tone during 2018/2019. The bodywork presents in good condition with a clean finish and only mild wear typical of occasional use. The engine was overhauled prior to the repaint. Supporting invoices for all mechanical and cosmetic work are available.
Technically, the vehicle is in good condition. The car is no longer subject to APK testing due to its age. It remains rust-free, with no reported accident damage and no aftermarket technical upgrades, retaining its period configuration.
The interior, presented in a green/beige fabric combination, is in good condition with minor wear. The seat upholstery, door cards and carpet are complete and match the car’s aesthetic. The dashboard features a full complement of clearly legible original instruments, and all onboard electronics are said to function properly. This interior layout echoes the car’s upscale aspirations within the compact segment of the 1960s.
Auto Union, the forerunner of modern-day Audi, introduced the DKW 1000S as a continuation of its two-stroke heritage. The 1000S, introduced in the late 1950s, featured front-wheel drive—a rarity at the time—and a transverse-mounted three-cylinder engine. This engineering direction would later influence many compact car designs in Europe.
The car was part of Auto Union’s efforts to create an accessible, comfortable car for the middle class, with a focus on durability and road manners. The 1000S was produced at the Ingolstadt plant and became popular in markets like Sweden and the Netherlands, where its winter-friendly front-wheel-drive layout was appreciated. The body was also praised for its styling, with flowing fenders and a prominent grille, hinting at post-war optimism and modest luxury.
Two-stroke engines were a defining characteristic of DKW, delivering punchy power from small displacement, though they eventually fell out of favour due to emissions and efficiency challenges. That makes the DKW 1000S a technical curiosity today, prized by collectors for its unusual engine note, light handling, and historical relevance in the pre-Audi era.
This particular example comes with helpful extras, including a replacement front windshield, new rubber seals, and parts related to the braking system. These additions, combined with the car’s clean mechanical bill of health and cosmetic presentation, make it an appealing acquisition for enthusiasts of German automotive history or collectors seeking a road-ready car with honest charm.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
3. Good: Shows typical wear; may require some repairs or part replacements.
Technical Condition
3. Good: Generally reliable, but may need some maintenance or repairs.
Overall Condition
3. Good Condition: May need some mechanical and cosmetic repairs, but can drive.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in Gelderland province, the Netherlands.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a Dutch registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
