Borgward RS classic car buying

History of the Borgward RS

Introduced in the early 1950s, the Borgward RS was built by Carl F.W. Borgward GmbH to compete in international motorsport, especially grueling endurance races. Designed as a direct rival for such luminaries as the Porsche RS Spyder, the Borgward RS featured avant-garde technology for its era, putting the brand on the map for racing innovation. Its limited production — only a handful were ever constructed — reflected not only its specialised development but also the company's determined pursuit of motorsport glory. The car represents Borgward’s most ambitious postwar motorsport project, marrying advanced mechanical design with racing pedigree.

Model History

The Borgward RS marked a break from Borgward’s touring car tradition, moving the manufacturer firmly into the competitive sports car sector. While its predecessors mainly catered to conventional road use, the RS was a purpose-built racing machine. No direct street-legal successor followed, as the company re-focused on mass-market vehicles after its motorsport endeavours. Its career on the racetrack, however, cemented its reputation as Borgward’s premier motorsport creation.

Highlights of the Borgward RS

• Purpose-built racing two-seater with pure performance intent.
• Engine featured aluminium DOHC cylinder heads, four valves per cylinder, and dual spark plugs, realising high power-limits for its time.
• Aluminium sheet bodywork provided both lightweight construction and aerodynamic efficiency.
• Extremely rare: only a handful were completed and survive, making it a prime piece of motorsport history.
• Successfully competed against formidable rivals, notably the Porsche RS Spyder.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Given the extremely small production run, each Borgward RS that survives today is effectively a special edition. Any remaining factory-built chassis with documented racing history stands out as particularly desirable due to its authentic motorsport pedigree.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

Maintenance of a Borgward RS focuses on its specialist race-derived components. The DOHC valvetrain and fuel injection system require precise adjustment and expert knowledge. Aluminium bodywork is susceptible to corrosion if not meticulously cared for. Spare parts can be exceptionally difficult to source due to the minimal production and unique component specifications.

Engine, Performance, Transmission and Handling

With its innovative four-cylinder engine featuring DOHC and four valves per cylinder, the Borgward RS generated significant horsepower for its displacement, delivering strong acceleration and high revving characteristics. The mechanical fuel injection system allowed precise power delivery, particularly advantageous in high-speed competition. The car’s lightweight aluminium chassis and well-tuned suspension contributed to agile handling and competitive endurance racing capability.

Popular models:

• Borgward RS competition models: All surviving examples feature the race specification engine with mechanical injection and aluminium bodywork, offering an authentic period-correct driving experience. undefined

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The interior of the Borgward RS was spartan and focused, designed solely for the demands of motorsport. Instrumentation was minimal but functional. The exterior’s aluminium body, sculpted for aerodynamic performance, displayed clean lines and purposeful aesthetic. No comfort features were included, reflecting its uncompromising competition role. Borgward’s commitment to lightweight construction is exemplified by the minimal use of materials and absence of unnecessary trim or soundproofing.

Other Features

Due to its rarity and origin as a factory racing car, each RS tends to have unique restoration and racing histories. Documentation and provenance are critical factors for valuation and collectability.

Summary

The Borgward RS remains one of Germany’s most technologically ambitious postwar sports cars, distinguished by its DOHC, fuel-injected engine, lightweight aluminium construction, and pure racing heritage. Its rarity and engineering sophistication continue to attract those with a deep appreciation for historic motorsport technology.