NSU Motorenwerke History and Development

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A stunning coastal landscape at Bronte Beach, showcasing clear blue waters and rocky shores in NSW, Australia.
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NSU Motorenwerke was founded in 1873 by Christian Schmidt in Rasmussen, Germany.

The company started out making bicycles and later began producing motorcycles in 1901.

NSU's first motorcycle, the Typ 6, was launched in 1901 and featured a single cylinder engine.

By the 1920s, NSU had become one of the largest motorcycle manufacturers in Germany.

History

NSU Motorenwerke was quite the innovator during World War II, producing the Kettenkrad, a half-tracked motorcycle with the engine of the Opel Olympia. They also made the 251 OSL motorcycle in the war.

NSU continued to make a name for itself in the world of motorcycles, becoming a Moto2 World Constructors' Champion in 1953 and 1954. Their success in these early years is a testament to their innovative spirit and commitment to quality.

Here's a list of NSU's Moto2 World Constructors' Championship wins:

(1905–1918)

Between 1905 and 1918, NSU was producing a wide range of cars under license from the Belgian firm of Pipe. The first NSU cars were the single-cylinder 3-wheeled Sulmobil, first produced in 1905.

Volkswagen Tiguan Car
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One notable model was the NSU-Pipe 34 PS, a 4-cylinder car with an engine size of 3768 cm and a max power of 34 PS. Another model was the NSU-Pipe 50 PS, also a 4-cylinder car with an engine size of 8290 cm and a max power of 50 PS.

In 1906, NSU introduced the NSU 6/10 PS, a 4-cylinder car with an engine size of 1420 cm and a max power of 12 PS. This was followed by the NSU 6/12 PS in 1907, a 4-cylinder car with an engine size of 1540 cm and a max power of 13 PS.

The NSU 10/20 PS was introduced in 1907, a 4-cylinder car with an engine size of 2608 cm and a max power of 20 PS. The NSU 10/22 PS was introduced in 1910, a 4-cylinder car with an engine size of 2608 cm and a max power of 22 PS.

NSU also produced several other models during this period, including the NSU 8/15 PS, NSU 9/18 PS, and NSU 9/22 PS. The NSU 8/24 PS was introduced in 1911, a 4-cylinder car with an engine size of 2110 cm and a max power of 24 PS.

Here's a list of some of the models produced by NSU between 1905 and 1918:

The NSU 2½-Tonner was introduced in 1914, a 4-cylinder car with an engine size of 3380 cm and a max power of 42 PS.

Origin

Classic green car parked by an old building in Berlin, showcasing vintage automotive style.
Credit: pexels.com, Classic green car parked by an old building in Berlin, showcasing vintage automotive style.

NSU originated as a knitting machine manufacturer in 1873 in the town of Riedlingen on the Danube. Christian Schmidt, a technically astute entrepreneur, established the business.

The company relocated to Neckarsulm in 1880, marking the beginning of a period of rapid growth. By 1892, bicycle manufacturing had completely replaced knitting machine production.

In 1901, the first NSU motorcycle was introduced, followed by the first NSU car in 1905. The company made motorcycles and trucks for the German Army during World War I.

Bicycle production began in 1900 and continued into the early 1960s. The company's attempt to break into volume automobile production failed, leading to the sale of their car factory in Heilbronn to Fiat in 1932.

Post-War Models

NSU Motorenwerke produced a range of post-war cars, including the Prinz I, II & III, Sport Prinz, and NSU Ro 80. The Prinz I, II & III models were produced from 1957 to 1962, while the Sport Prinz was produced from 1959 to 1967.

Credit: youtube.com, The Fascinating Story of NSU Motorcycles

The NSU Ro 80, a notable model, was produced from 1967 to 1977. It's worth noting that NSU also produced the K70, which was later rebranded as the Volkswagen K70 after the company's takeover.

Here are some of the notable post-war cars produced by NSU:

  • Prinz I, II & III (1957–1962)
  • Sport Prinz (1959–1967)
  • Prinz 4, 4 L (240 cu in) (1961–1972)
  • Prinz 1000, NSU 1000 (1964–1972)
  • NSU 1000 TT, NSU TT, NSU TTS (1965–1972)
  • NSU Typ 110 (1965–1967)
  • NSU 1200 (1967–1972)
  • NSU Spider (1964–1967)
  • NSU Ro 80 (1967–1977)
  • NSU K70 (1970–1975)

After WW II

After WW II, NSU started producing some amazing cars that would become iconic in the industry. NSU produced the Prinz I, II & III I, II, 30 and III from 1957 to 1962.

The Prinz series was a game-changer for NSU, offering a range of models that catered to different needs and preferences. The Sport Prinz was introduced in 1959 and was a popular choice among car enthusiasts.

The Prinz 4, 4 L (240 cu in) was another significant model produced by NSU, with a production run spanning from 1961 to 1972. This model was known for its reliability and fuel efficiency.

Here's a list of some of the most notable post-war models produced by NSU:

  • Prinz I, II & III I, II, 30 and III (1957–1962)
  • Sport Prinz (1959–1967)
  • Prinz 4, 4 L (240 cu in) (1961–1972)
  • Prinz 1000, NSU 1000 (1964–1972)
  • NSU 1000 TT, NSU TT, NSU TTS (1965–1972)
  • NSU Typ 110 (1965–1967)
  • NSU 1200 (1967–1972)
  • NSU Spider (1964–1967)
  • NSU Ro 80 (1967–1977)
  • NSU K70, produced after VW/Audi takeover as the Volkswagen K70 (1970–1975)

The NSU Ro 80, in particular, was a standout model that impressed car enthusiasts with its sleek design and advanced features. It was produced from 1967 to 1977 and remains a beloved classic among car collectors.

1960 Prinz 30

Credit: youtube.com, NSU Prinz 30 1960 Microcar smiles @ www.SunRIseCars.com.au

The 1960 Prinz 30 is a rare gem. It has a mileage of 37,235 miles.

This model was produced by NSU, a German automobile manufacturer. The Prinz 30 was part of the Prinz series, which included several models such as the Prinz I, II & III I, II, 30 and III.

The Prinz 30 was available with a manual transmission. It's worth noting that the driver's side of this vehicle is LHD (left-hand drive).

Here's a brief overview of the Prinz series:

1962 Motorcycles Quickly

The 1962 NSU Motorcycles Quickly was a popular model that continues to be sought after by collectors and enthusiasts today. With over 1,000,000 examples produced between 1953 and 1966, it's no wonder that this moped remains a staple of many collections.

One of the most notable features of the NSU Quickly is its durability and reliability. The fact that over 60% of these mopeds were exported to other countries is a testament to their quality and popularity.

Motorcycle Speedometer
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The NSU Quickly was produced in a variety of colors and styles, but its iconic design has remained largely unchanged. If you're lucky enough to get your hands on one of these classic mopeds, be prepared to put in some work to get it back on the road.

Here are some key specs for the 1962 NSU Motorcycles Quickly:

  • Year: 1962
  • Mileage: 13,665 mi TMU
  • Location: North Andover, MA, USA
  • Originality: Project
  • Transmission: Manual
  • Driver side: LHD

Whether you're a seasoned mechanic or a beginner, the NSU Quickly is a great model to learn on. With its simple design and robust construction, it's the perfect choice for anyone looking to get back to basics and enjoy the thrill of riding a classic moped.

Motorcycles and Other Vehicles

NSU Motorenwerke produced its first motorcycle, the "Neckarsulmer Motorrad", in 1901, using a Swiss 1+3⁄4hp single-cylinder motor with battery/coil ignition.

The company had several successes in the Isle of Man TT races in the 1950s, including a fifth-place finish by British manager Martin Geiger in 1907.

Credit: youtube.com, The Fascinating Story of NSU Motorcycles

In the 1930s and mid-1950s, NSU was the largest motorcycle producer in the world, producing 350,000 machines in its peak year of 1955.

NSU holds four world records for speed, set in 1951, 1953, 1954, and 1955.

The company's most notable speed record was set in 1956, when Wilhelm Herz piloted the Delphin III to a speed of 211 mph at Bonneville, Utah.

Here is a list of some of the notable NSU motorcycles and scooters produced over the years:

  • Neckarsulm 1.25hp (1.27PS; 0.93kW) 1908
  • NSU 3PS (2.96hp; 2.21kW) 1911
  • NSU 1913
  • 1917 Heeresmodell (Army) PS 5/5, 495cc (30.2cuin)
  • NSU Fox (1952)
  • NSU Lux (1952)
  • NSU Rennmax G.P. 250cc (15cuin)O.H.C.TWIN (1953)
  • NSU Rennfox G.P. 125cc (7.6cuin) O.H.C. TWIN (1954)
  • NSU Rennmax G.P. 250cc (15cuin) O.H.C. TWIN (1954)
  • NSU Superlux 250cc (15cuin) T/S SINGLE (1955)
  • NSU Sportmax G.P. 250cc (15cuin) O.H.C. SINGLE (1956)
  • NSU Quickly 50cc (3.1cuin) T/Smoped (1953)

The NSU Quickly was the most popular moped of its time, produced between 1953 and 1966 in over 1,000,000 examples.

Motorcycles and Scooters

NSU motorcycles and scooters have a rich history that spans over a century. The first "Neckarsulmer Motorrad" motorcycle was produced in 1901, using a Swiss 1+3⁄4hp (1.8 PS; 1.3 kW) Zedel single-cylinder AIV motor with battery/coil ignition.

NSU had several successes in the Isle of Man TT races in the 1950s, including a fifth-place finish in the inaugural race in 1907 by British manager Martin Geiger.

Racer on a powerful motorcycle speeding on Hockenheimring track, showcasing thrilling motorsport action.
Credit: pexels.com, Racer on a powerful motorcycle speeding on Hockenheimring track, showcasing thrilling motorsport action.

In the 1930s, and in the mid-1950s, NSU was the largest motorcycle producer of the world, producing 350,000 machines in its peak year (1955).

Here's a list of some notable NSU motorcycles and scooters:

  • Neckarsulm 1.25 hp (1.27 PS; 0.93 kW) 1908
  • NSU 3 PS (2.96 hp; 2.21 kW) 1911
  • NSU 1913
  • 1917 Heeresmodell (Army) PS 5/5, 495 cc (30.2 cu in)
  • NSU Fox (1952)
  • NSU Lux (1952)
  • NSU Rennmax G.P. 250 cc (15 cu in) O.H.C.TWIN (1953)
  • NSU Rennfox G.P. 125 cc (7.6 cu in) O.H.C. TWIN (1954)
  • NSU Superlux 250 cc (15 cu in) T/S SINGLE (1955)
  • NSU Sportmax G.P. 250 cc (15 cu in) O.H.C. SINGLE (1956)
  • Sidecar (Germany, 2002)
  • NSU 1000
  • NSU 500
  • NSU 2000
  • NSU Lambretta Prima D scooter
  • NSU Prima [de]dashboard
  • NSU Prima III scooter
  • 1957 NSU Prima in Deutsches Zweirad- und NSU-Museum
  • NSU Quickly 50 cc (3.1 cu in) T/Smoped (1953)

NSU holds four world records for speed: 1951, 1953, 1954, and 1955.

Bicycles

Bicycles are a great mode of transportation, and it's interesting to note that NSU bicycles started production as early as 1900 and continued into the early 1960s.

I've had my fair share of riding bicycles, and I can attest to their environmental benefits and cost-effectiveness.

Lawn Mower Engine

NSU manufactured a vertical-crankshaft small engine for use as a lawn mower power unit in the early 1970s.

This engine was likely designed to be compact and lightweight, making it ideal for lawn mowers.

The fact that NSU made a lawn mower engine highlights their versatility as a manufacturer.

Their ability to adapt to different markets and products is a testament to their innovative spirit.

NSU's experience with small engines likely informed their motorcycle designs, where compactness and efficiency are crucial.

Osb/56 Supermax

Parked Classic Volkswagen Beetle Cars
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The Osb/56 Supermax is a rare find, especially in such great condition. This 1958 NSU model has been well taken care of, with a mileage of 31,479 miles.

The Osb/56 Supermax is a project vehicle, which means it's partially operable or non-operable and suitable for restoration or customization. If you're handy with tools, this could be a great opportunity to bring a classic back to life.

This particular Osb/56 Supermax is located in Staffordshire, GBR, making it a great find for collectors or enthusiasts in the UK.

Wankel Spider 1965

The 1965 NSU 56-Wankel Spider is a unique vehicle with a rich history. It has a mileage of 22,996 miles.

Located in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA, this Spider is a great find for any collector or enthusiast. The originality of the vehicle is high, with minor removable modifications such as aftermarket wheels and exhaust.

The transmission of the 1965 NSU 56-Wankel Spider is manual, making it a great choice for those who enjoy driving with a sense of control. The driver side of the vehicle is centered.

Here's a summary of the key features of the 1965 NSU 56-Wankel Spider:

Volkswagen Group

Credit: youtube.com, What REALLY happened to the VW K70

The Volkswagen Group takeover had a significant impact on NSU Motorenwerke. In 1969, Volkswagenwerk AG took over NSU, merging it with Auto Union, the owners of the Audi brand.

This marked the end of the NSU marque, with all future production bearing the Audi badge. The last car to still carry the NSU badge was the Ro 80, which was sold in April 1977.

Production of the Ro 80 continued in the Neckarsulm plant, while larger Audi models like the 100 and 200 were started. The Porsche 924 and 944 were also assembled at Neckarsulm.

Today, Neckarsulm is the production plant for Audi's topline vehicles, including the A6, A8, and R8. It's also home to the "Aluminium- und Leichtbauzentrum" where Audi's aluminium-made space frame bodies are designed and engineered.

NSU's development of the rotary engine was a costly venture, but it led to the creation of the Wankel engine, which was used in several cars, including the NSU Ro 80.

On a similar theme: Khakas Aluminium Smelter

Museum and Abroad-Built Models

Credit: youtube.com, NSU - Wonderful old german bike

The NSU Museum in Neckarsulm has a vast collection of NSU's products on display, giving visitors a glimpse into the company's rich history.

In addition to their German production, NSU cars were also built abroad under license. The NSU Prinz was one of the models licensed for production in various countries.

The NSU Prinz was built in Yugoslavia by PRETIS, Argentina by Autoar, and Egypt, showcasing NSU's global reach.

Museum

The Deutsches Zweirad- und NSU-Museum in Neckarsulm has many of NSU's products on display.

This museum showcases NSU's extensive collection of motorcycles and vehicles.

NSU's legacy lives on through its unique exhibits that highlight the company's innovative designs and technological advancements.

The Deutsches Zweirad- und NSU-Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into NSU's history and its impact on the automotive industry.

Visitors can explore the museum's vast collection of NSU's products, making it a must-visit destination for motorcycle enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Expand your knowledge: Bangladesh Bank Taka Museum

Abroad-Built Models

The NSU Prinz was built in several countries abroad, showcasing its popularity beyond Germany. The Prinz was manufactured in Yugoslavia by PRETIS, Argentina by Autoar, and Egypt under licence.

Credit: youtube.com, Unique Scrap Built Models Museum Tour

In Uruguay, a new model called the P6 was created, combining the engine and mechanics of the NSU model with a redesigned body. This model was a result of collaboration between NSU and Carlos Sotomayor.

The P6 was later succeeded by the P10, which featured a larger engine from the NSU Prince 1000 and a 21cm extended wheelbase.

1960 26 Over 150 Prima 111

The 1960 NSU Prinz 30 is a great example of an original and highly original vehicle. It has a manual transmission and a mileage of 37,235 miles.

Its originality is not compromised by minor modifications such as aftermarket wheels or accessories. The vehicle is located in Midland, Michigan, USA, making it easily accessible for potential buyers.

Here are some key features of the 1960 NSU Prinz 30:

The 1960 NSU Prinz 30 is a great example of a vehicle that has been well-maintained and preserved. With its original and highly original features, it's a great find for collectors or enthusiasts.

A different take: Original Brand Manufacturer

91749637: 1969 1000c

Detail of a vintage car dashboard showcasing classic gauges and retro design.
Credit: pexels.com, Detail of a vintage car dashboard showcasing classic gauges and retro design.

The 1969 NSU 1000C, Lot 91749637, is an original and highly original vehicle. It's located in the Metropolitan Borough of Solihull, GBR.

This NSU 1000C has a manual transmission, which is a great feature for those who enjoy driving with a sense of control. The vehicle is also a left-hand drive, which may be a consideration for some buyers.

Here are some key facts about this vehicle:

The originality of this vehicle is a major selling point, as it's close to its original factory specifications.

213695: 1967 Spider

The 1967 NSU Spider is a unique model that has caught the attention of many car enthusiasts. This model is a highly sought-after collector's item, and its originality is a major selling point.

The 1967 NSU Spider has a manual transmission, which is a rare find in many classic cars. The driver's side is centered, a feature that is not commonly seen in this type of vehicle.

Rear Bumpers of Two Beetle Car
Credit: pexels.com, Rear Bumpers of Two Beetle Car

The 1967 NSU Spider has a mileage of 44,000 miles, a relatively low number considering its age. This suggests that the car has been well-maintained and has not been driven excessively.

Here's a comparison of the 1967 NSU Spider with other similar models:

The 1967 NSU Spider is a rare find, and its originality and manual transmission make it a prized possession for any car collector.

Sean Dooley

Lead Writer

Sean Dooley is a seasoned writer with a passion for crafting engaging content. With a strong background in research and analysis, Sean has developed a keen eye for detail and a talent for distilling complex information into clear, concise language. Sean's portfolio includes a wide range of articles on topics such as accounting services, where he has demonstrated a deep understanding of financial concepts and a ability to communicate them effectively to diverse audiences.

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