Adler 10 / 28 PS classic cars for sale

History of the Adler 10/28 PS

Adlerwerke’s journey began in 1880 in Frankfurt with Heinrich Kleyer’s bicycle factory, which soon expanded into automobile production by the turn of the century. Early Adlers were equipped with De Dion engines, and by 1906 the company stood among Germany’s automotive leaders. A crucial milestone was Adler’s pioneering use of an integrated engine and gearbox unit. In 1909, Adler presented the 10/28 PS as part of a new generation of cars, offering modern mechanical solutions and robust engineering. Alongside the 10/28 PS, larger models such as the 18/30 PS, 19/45 PS, and 23/50 PS also entered production. Despite Adler's later fame for typewriters, the company was a technological trailblazer in the German car industry until it left car production after WWII. Today, very few Adler 10/28 PS have survived complete, making them a rare presence even in specialist classic car circles.

Model History

The Adler 10/28 PS was introduced in 1909 as the smallest and most agile of Adler’s premium models. It replaced earlier designs based on French technology, embracing Adler’s shift to proprietary engineering. Its production lasted until 1912, after which larger and more powerful successors like the Adler 20/50 PS took over the mantle. The 10/28 PS marked Adler’s final commitment to medium-displacement sporting vehicles before the focus shifted entirely to larger luxury and commercial models.

Highlights and Unique Features

The Adler 10/28 PS features several technical and design advances that stood out at the time: an in-house produced four-cylinder engine, block-integrated drivetrain, and a suspension using leaf springs for improved ride comfort. Its elongated bonnet gave it a visually sporty, almost austere character compared to contemporaries. Every model was adorned with the Adler radiator mascot—a meticulously crafted silver eagle, underscoring the brand’s identity.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

There are no well-documented factory special editions of the 10/28 PS, though custom coachwork by period bodybuilders occasionally resulted in unique variants. Surviving vehicles with factory bodywork and all original mechanicals command particular interest among collectors due to the exceedingly limited numbers extant today.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

Due to the model's age and the scarcity of surviving examples, comprehensive information on specific weaknesses is limited. Buyers should focus on verifying the condition and originality of major components such as the chassis, drivetrain, and coachwork. Restoration projects often contend with a lack of original parts, especially engine internals and body panels, since reproduction parts are rare. Due diligence is advised concerning previous restoration quality and mechanical completeness.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

With a 2.6-litre four-cylinder producing 30 PS, the Adler 10/28 PS provides performance in line with upper-class vehicles from the period. The in-house engine and block-integrated gearbox set it apart mechanically, and the leaf spring suspension delivers the characteristic handling of veteran-era touring cars—stable but demanding compared to modern vehicles. Gear changes are manual, straight-cut, and non-synchronised, typical for the era, requiring driver experience. Among classic Adlers, the 10/28 PS is notable for its technical advancement relative to its contemporaries, even though surviving numbers are vastly outpaced by more common Adler models such as the later Trumpf or Favorit.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The 10/28 PS carried a distinctive, elongated bonnet and upright radiator with the silver eagle mascot, visually cementing the Adler brand image. Interiors were typically crafted by coachbuilders, featuring period-correct leather, wood, and metalwork, with minimal luxury compared to later vehicles. Each example will differ depending on the original body type—be it roadster or cabriolet. Accessories and special equipment are rare, but custom luggage racks and brass fittings were sometimes fitted in period. Every preserved car displays unique maker details rooted in German craftsmanship of the early 1900s.

Other Noteworthy Features

Adler participated in early aviation shows in 1909, presenting their engines for use in airships. This demonstrates the technological breadth of the company at the time, and links surviving 10/28 PS vehicles directly to broader engineering progress in pre-war Germany.

Summary

The Adler 10/28 PS, manufactured between 1909 and 1912, delivered innovative mechanical solutions, a robust chassis, and a sporting appearance for its era. The remaining examples are extraordinary rarities, making any surviving vehicle a historically valuable artefact. Before purchasing, potential buyers should verify mechanical completeness and originality due to the high restoration effort and rarity of components.