The Legendary NSU Type 6/60 PS: Celebrating a Historic Win at the 1926 German Grand Prix
Dive into the exhilarating history of the NSU Type 6/60 PS racing car and its remarkable quadruple victory at the 1926 German Grand Prix. Join us as we explore this automotive icon during NSU’s 150th-anniversary celebrations.
As we celebrate the 150th anniversary of the iconic NSU brand, it's time to revisit one of the most remarkable moments in motorsport history - the stunning performance of the NSU Type 6/60 PS at the 1926 German Grand Prix. This blog post will take you back to the roaring 20s to witness the birth of a racing legend.
The Birth of a Racing Legend
The NSU brand, synonymous with motorsport success, achieved an unforgettable milestone in 1926. The German Grand Prix, held at the AVUS circuit in Berlin, was the stage for a spectacular show of strength and agility by the NSU Type 6/60 PS - the company's first six-cylinder model, designed exclusively for racing.
The Road to Victory
NSU’s journey in international motorsports began as early as 1908, with significant achievements like the 1909 Prince Henry Tour. However, it was the opening of the Automobil-Verkehrs- und Übungsstraße (AVUS) circuit in Berlin that set the stage for their most notable triumph. This track, a testing ground for Germany's automotive prowess, witnessed the NSU 8/24 PS clinching a class win in its inaugural race in 1921.
A Masterpiece in Engineering
The NSU Type 6/60 PS, a marvel of engineering, was a purpose-built racing machine. It boasted a six-cylinder engine, a lightweight frame of 830 kilograms, and a top speed of 175 km/h. Painted in the traditional racing white, as per the regulations of the era, this car was not just a vehicle but a symbol of German engineering excellence.
Triumph Amidst Tragedy
The 1926 German Grand Prix was not just a racing event; it was an emotional rollercoaster. Amidst the backdrop of heavy rains and a tragic training accident, the NSU Type 6/60 PS emerged victorious, claiming the top four positions in its class. This race, attended by a quarter-million spectators, etched the NSU Type 6/60 PS into the annals of motorsport history.
The Legacy Continues
The NSU Type 6/60 PS's success on the racetrack spurred the development of the NSU 6/30 PS for the popular 6 PS tax class. Although NSU eventually shifted its focus to the NSU Type 7/34 PS, the 6/60 PS remains a testament to the brand’s racing heritage.
A Rare Gem in Automotive History
Today, the NSU Type 6/60 PS holds a place of honor in Audi's historical vehicle collection. One of the few surviving models of this racing legend was meticulously restored by NSU and remains a priceless piece of automotive history.
Conclusion
As we continue our journey through NSU's storied past in this series, the NSU Type 6/60 PS stands out as a beacon of innovation and racing prowess. To explore more about NSU’s diverse and fascinating model history, don't miss the Audi Tradition Edition book “NSU-Automobile. Typen – Technik – Modelle” by Klaus Arth.
