The 7th Concept Car from the Top 17: Audi Avus

Welcome to the exhilarating world where innovation meets passion, and classic craftsmanship converges with cutting-edge technology. In the spotlight today is the extraordinary Audi Avus, a concept sports car that left an indelible mark on automotive history. Buckle up as we embark on a riveting journey through the legacy, design, and unique features of the 7th concept car in our top 17 series.

Unveiling a Masterpiece: The Audi Avus 

Picture this: Tokyo, 1991. The air is electric at the Tokyo Motor Show as Audi takes the stage to unveil the Avus. A mid-engined sports car boasting a W12 engine, it was a vision of automotive magnificence. While the Avus never went into series production, its significance as a concept study became the harbinger of Audi's future developments.

A Nod to Racing Legends: Design Inspired by Auto Union

The Avus's allure begins with its design, a meticulous creation by J Mays. Drawing inspiration from the Auto Union race cars of the 1930s, it features unpainted aluminum bodies, a nod to the racing legends of the past. The body panels, hand-beaten from polished 1.5 mm thick aluminum, make a striking statement.

Power, Precision, and Performance

Underneath the captivating exterior lies the heart of the Avus —an impressive 6.0 L 60-valve W12 engine. Crafted to produce a powerhouse 509 PS (374 kW; 502 hp), this engine was a precursor to the Audi-made W12 engines that would later grace the 2001 Audi A8 6.0 W12. The Avus also boasts three lockable differentials, rear-wheel steering, and a distinctive NACA-style duct mounted on the roof.

Crafting Art on Wheels: The Aluminium Space Frame

The Avus’s body isn't just a shell; it's a piece of art. The use of an aluminium space frame, a departure from the later spaceframe technology, showcases Audi's commitment to innovation. The hand-beaten aluminum panels and the promise of a kerb weight of 1,250 kilograms reflect Audi's passion for precision and excellence in engineering.

Legacy in Motion: Avus in Today's World

Fast forward to the present, and the Avus stands tall at Audi's museum mobile in Ingolstadt, Germany. Its timeless allure continues to astonish enthusiasts and serves as a forerunner to the iconic Audi R8. This concept car, though once a Tokyo showstopper, lives on as a testament to Audi's unrelenting pursuit of automotive excellence.

A Call to the Enthusiasts

As we immerse ourselves in the journey of the Audi Avus, we invite you, the diverse community of car enthusiasts, to revel in the blend of classic craftsmanship and futuristic innovation. Whether you're drawn to the racing legends of the past or captivated by the cutting-edge technology shaping the future, the Audi Avus is a symbol of inclusivity in the world of automotive passion.

In the spirit of discovery and shared enthusiasm, let's continue this journey together. Stay tuned, for the journey continues, and the best is yet to come.