1938 Auto Union Wanderer in Fernandina Beach, Florida

1938 Auto Union Wanderer W25K Roadster
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Estimate: $55,000 - $70,000
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Chassis Number:180155 - 32039D180135
Engine: 1950 CC In-line 6-cylinder
4-speed Manual transmission

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The Model: When four German automakers come together under one roof, there is bound to be innovation through design. �So, when Audi, Horch, DKW and Wanderer coalesced to form Auto Union the products rolling off the line were often at the forefront of technology. ��Winklhofer & Jaenicke built vehicles since the turn of the century under the name Wanderer for its exports and eventually for all of it cars and. �The company was constantly developing, starting with its small 4-cylinder engine and eventually had developed a 6-cylinder by the time the company was sold in 1932. ��While Horch was positioned as the conglomerate's flagship, it was Audi and Wanderer that were providing the engineering innovation. �When the Wanderer W25K made its debut in 1936, it looked like it belonged to the luxury line because of its elegant styling, with its low-slung lines and deep-cut doors, �but it had the heart of a racer with its powerful 6-cylinder powerplant conceived by Ferdinand Porsche. �Often fitted with a supercharger, it is believed that only about 250 examples of the W25K ever left the factory.

The Car: When the designer gets the lines of an open-top sports car just right, it doesn't need shiny paint or perfectly aligned panels to draw the attention of those who have a passion for relics. �This wanderer did require some imagination, however, when Nascar legend, Ray Evernham found it in pieces. After he and his crew reassembled this rare example of pre-war sports cars, it has become clear that even after years of neglect this wanderer is every bit as exceptional as it was when it left the factory. �This W25k is the perfect foundation for a complete restoration. �While little is known about the history of this car, and research is ongoing, it is believed that the in-line 6-cylinder present in the engine bay is a non original variant. �Much work will need to be done on the inside of the car to bring it back to life but the centerpiece of the interior, the elegant white-faced gauges still reside in the center of the dash. While this ultra-rare German will test the talents of any restorer, this Wanderer isn't lost, and the finished product will undoubtedly be the highlight of any collection.