The Auto Union Typ C remains one of the most iconic and remarkable vehicles in the history of motorsport. Introduced in 1937, this streamlined wonder not only shocked the world with its futuristic design but also helped set new speed records on one of the most dangerous racetracks of its time. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the evolution of the Auto Union Typ C, the challenges it faced, the thrilling races it participated in, and the legacy it left behind.
Introduction to the Auto Union Typ C
The streamlined design of the Auto Union Typ C must have been an absolute sensation when it debuted in 1937. With its smooth, curved bodywork and forward-thinking engineering, the car was more than just a high-speed machine—it was a symbol of automotive innovation. Designed specifically to achieve top speed on the Avus circuit near Berlin, the Typ C would eventually influence the future of production cars, as its aerodynamic curves were replicated in vehicles for years to come.
The design of the Auto Union Typ C was not just about aesthetics; it was about purpose. This car was engineered with one goal in mind: to break records and push the boundaries of what was possible on the track.
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Watch the thrilling recreation of the fastest race in the world: 1937 AVUS-Rennen in Assetto Corsa!
Avus Circuit and the Challenges It Presented
In 1937, the Avus circuit was the fastest track in the world, and it posed a unique set of challenges to the drivers who dared to race there. Located near Berlin, Avus became infamous for its high-speed turns and lack of safety barriers—most notably the “Wall of Death,” a dangerously steep curve at the end of the main straight. To heighten the track’s allure and increase its prestige, the layout was modified in 1937 with the addition of a high-speed, 43-degree banked turn, made entirely from brick. This feature allowed cars to reach astonishing speeds—close to 248 mph (400 kph).
At the time, Avus was not just a racing circuit; it was a test of both engineering and courage. Drivers had to face the track’s extreme challenges, including its lack of safety barriers and the sheer intensity of the high-speed straights.
The 1937 International Avus Rennen
In 1937, the International Avus Rennen was held, bringing together the best record-breaking cars from both Auto Union and Mercedes-Benz. The race was organized to showcase the technological advancements of these two giants of the automotive world, and both teams worked tirelessly to perfect their machines.
The event featured three seven-lap sprints, with a limited number of cars on the grid—only six or eight competitors. The race was divided into heats, with four “streamliner” cars—two from each manufacturer—racing alongside regular Grand Prix cars. The Auto Union Typ C, with its streamlined design, had a clear advantage on the two long straights, but the Grand Prix cars had the edge on the curves.
One of the most thrilling battles of the race was between Caracciola of Mercedes and Rosemeyer of Auto Union. They fought tooth and nail, neck and neck, right up to the final lap. In the end, Caracciola triumphed by a mere 0.7 seconds, claiming victory in the first heat.
The Thrilling Heat Races and Unpredictable Outcomes
The second heat was even faster, with Brauchitsch and Fagioli in a fierce duel of streamliners. Unfortunately for Fagioli, his car suffered transmission problems, forcing him to retire from the race. This left Von Brauchitsch to claim an easy victory for Mercedes. Meanwhile, Herman Lang, another Mercedes-Benz driver, faced a tire failure at high speed but managed to control his car and avoid a crash.
The third and final heat was the decider for the overall winner. With a combined group of competitors from the first two races, the final showdown featured Brauchitsch, Caracciola, and Lang from Mercedes, against Rosemeyer in the Auto Union. However, Rosemeyer’s V16 engine was only running on 13 cylinders, leaving him with little chance of victory. Ultimately, Lang claimed the overall victory, marking the only time that a driver would win using the full track—Avus was deemed too dangerous to continue using the following year.
The Development of Record-Breaking Cars by Auto Union
By 1937, Auto Union had been actively developing record-breaking cars for several years. Their first attempt at a streamlined design was the long-tail Typ A, followed by the striking Rekordwagen Typ Lucca Coupe. While Auto Union might have considered using these designs in a regular Grand Prix race, they never did. A streamlined Typ D did appear at the 1938 French Grand Prix in Reims but crashed heavily during practice.
Despite these setbacks, Auto Union’s streamlining efforts set the stage for future developments. The Type C was the culmination of years of experimentation, and its legacy would live on in the vehicles that followed.
The Legacy of the Auto Union Typ C
The influence of the 1937 Auto Union Typ C extends far beyond the racetrack. Its innovative design and engineering made it one of the most advanced cars of its time, and its streamlined curves would eventually make their way into production cars in the post-war period. The Typ C not only set speed records but also helped pave the way for modern automotive aerodynamics.
Today, only two original Auto Union Typ C streamliners exist, and they are valuable pieces of automotive history. Audi Tradition has created a replica of the 1937 Avus car to precise specifications, ensuring that the legacy of this groundbreaking vehicle is preserved for future generations.
Technical Specifications of the Auto Union Typ C
The Auto Union Typ C was powered by a 6.0-liter V16 engine, which produced 520 horsepower at 5,000 rpm. This engine was mated to a rear-wheel-drive layout and was equipped with a Roots supercharger. The car had a top speed of around 400 kph (248 mph), which was a remarkable achievement for its time. The body of the car was made of aluminum and mounted on a steel chassis, while the suspension featured trailing links with torsion bars in the front and a swing axle with torsion bars in the rear.
The car was equipped with Lockheed drum brakes on both the front and rear axles, and it employed a worm and rocker shaft steering mechanism. These features, combined with the car’s lightweight design and powerful engine, made the Typ C an unstoppable force on the track.
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Watch another video: The 1936 Auto Union Type C Grand Prix car with its V16 engine roaring to life!
Conclusion
The 1937 Auto Union Typ C remains one of the most significant cars in the history of motorsport. Its legacy continues to inspire automotive engineers and enthusiasts alike. Through its groundbreaking design, technological advancements, and record-breaking performances, the Typ C forever altered the landscape of racing cars, leaving an indelible mark on the world of motorsport.
