The Audi 50, envisioned as a modern and versatile vehicle, was intended to complement the Audi 80 and Audi 100 models. Development, led by CTO Ludwig Kraus, began in 1970 at Audi NSU Auto Union AG. The goal was to replace the aging NSU small car with a vehicle that met contemporary needs. The design philosophy emphasized creating a car perfectly sized for the era.
The Transverse Engine: Key to the Audi 50’s Design
A transverse engine layout was crucial to the Audi 50’s success. This configuration allowed engineers to maximize interior space within the car’s compact 3.49-meter length. Weighing a mere 685 kilograms, the “mini Audi” launched with two engine options: the 50 PS Audi 50 LS and the 60 PS Audi 50 GL, both featuring a 1.1-liter engine. The Audi 50 LS boasted a top speed of 142 kph, while the Audi 50 GL reached 152 kph. The 50 PS variant ran on regular gasoline, but the 60 PS model required super-gasoline. In 1977, the 60 PS engine was replaced by a new 1.3-liter engine capable of running on regular gasoline.
Design and Launch of the Audi 50
Hartmut Warkuß, renowned for designing the Audi 80, shaped the Audi 50’s elegant and timeless aesthetic. His design seamlessly integrated with the engineering package developed by Ludwig Kraus. Audi unveiled the 50 to international media in Sardinia during the summer of 1974. On October 26th, it arrived at dealerships, with the Audi 50 LS priced at 8,195 Deutschmarks and the Audi 50 GL at 8,510 Deutschmarks.
Production and Legacy of the Audi 50/50
Initially planned and developed in Neckarsulm and later in Ingolstadt, the “mini Audi” was produced at Volkswagen’s Wolfsburg plant. By March 31, 1975, 43,002 Audi 50s had rolled off the assembly line. Production of the structurally similar VW Polo commenced on the same date. Audi 50 production concluded in the summer of 1978, with a total of 180,828 units built. This marked Audi’s shift towards focusing on mid-range and luxury vehicles.
Despite its short production run, the Audi 50 played a pivotal role in establishing the small-car segment within the Volkswagen Group, paving the way for the immensely successful VW Polo and its subsequent generations. The Audi 50, though often overlooked, holds a significant place in Audi’s history. It showcased the brand’s innovation in design and engineering, demonstrating the feasibility of a compact yet spacious and stylish vehicle.
