Sachsenring P 240 classic cars for sale

History of the Sachsenring P 240

After an order from the GDR government to develop a luxury limousine rivalling West German models, the former Horch works in Zwickau began work on the P 240 in 1953. The prototype, initially named Horch P 240, appeared in 1954, entering production in 1956. Due to trademark issues, the venerable Horch name was soon replaced by Sachsenring. Built until 1959, the P 240 was produced in far fewer numbers than planned, totalling just 1,382 units. Not only did the car have to contend with reliability issues, but political factors and pressure to import Soviet models meant that many target buyers—such as doctors and lawyers—hesitated to adopt it. A minimal export programme and strict allocations within the GDR limited its broader impact, despite its high ambitions.

Model History

The Sachsenring P 240 evolved from the classic Horch lineage and followed the tradition of luxury saloons from Zwickau. The car’s origins are intertwined with pre-war Horch traditions and post-war innovation, resulting in a blend of conservative engineering and modern design. The successor to the P 240 in the high-end GDR segment was, in practice, the imported GAZ Volga, since domestic development for luxury sedans ceased after 1959. Special variants included an estate car (Kombi) for DDR television and the rare P 240 Cabriolet Repräsentant for state use.

Highlights of the Sachsenring P 240

The P 240 stands out for its combination of a robust 2.4-litre six-cylinder engine, rear-wheel drive and distinctive bodywork with cues similar to American models of the 1950s, such as suggestion of tail fins in later series. The engineering, including a non-self-supporting all-steel body mounted to a box-section frame, made it both substantial and safe for its time. The use of the OM 6-42.5 engine—originally designed at Auto Union Siegmar—provided a uniquely East German answer to the luxury limousine question. The facelifts in 1957 further modernised its looks. Despite its prestige, actual numbers produced were very low, with planned targets missed by a wide margin (only 1,382 of the originally planned 5,000–9,000 units built).

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Several notable variants of the P 240 were created. Between five and seven Kombi models (estate cars) were specially built for East German television, while five convertibles designated "P 240 Repräsentant" were produced for the National People’s Army, intended as official parade cars during special events such as the GDR's 20th anniversary in 1969. These special orders were rare and hand-assembled, making them exceptional within the small production run.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

No detailed weak spot data available. However, period reports indicate that technical reliability was an issue for P 240 owners. As with many luxury vehicles from planned economies, access to spare parts and qualified service was frequently problematic, which could affect restoration and ongoing maintenance today. Interested buyers should check the availability of original engine, bodywork and drivetrain components.

Engine, Transmission and Handling

The P 240’s six-cylinder engine offers smooth power delivery for its time, with 80 PS moving a heavy, well-insulated saloon. Its four-speed manual transmission (with synchronised upper gears) made for relatively comfortable driving by 1950s standards. The chassis design, with a solid all-steel body on a frame, contributes to very stable handling at moderate speeds—although the vehicle’s weight and rigid rear axle limit dynamic agility compared to Western counterparts. Brake performance relies entirely on drum brakes. Popular engine and drivetrain combinations focus on preserving the original OM 6-42.5 setup for reasons of historical accuracy. Highlights include the standard P 240 saloon (2.4L R6, 80 PS, rear-wheel drive) and the extremely rare P 240 Repräsentant cabriolets and Kombi variants, all based on the same technical principal but with special bodywork for specific state purposes.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Sachsenring’s P 240 combines functional luxury with subtle US-inspired body lines, especially evident in post-1957 models with stylised tailfins and new round taillights. The interior is spacious and designed for comfort by the standards of the GDR, with generous use of high-quality materials and a clear, straightforward dashboard layout reminiscent of Horch design traditions. Some vehicles were finished to a higher specification for state use, including furniture-grade wood veneers and bespoke fabric trims. Accessories and special colours were occasionally available by special order for official clients.

Other Notable Features

The P 240's historical context as a product of GDR state policy, along with its role as an official conveyance for government and television institutions, make surviving examples especially rich in provenance. Its position as the last big Zwickau-built luxury car means examples often come with fascinating ownership histories and original documents.

Summary

The Sachsenring P 240 stands out among classic cars as the last GDR-built large luxury saloon, developed under state commission and produced in tiny numbers. Its blend of robust six-cylinder engineering, representative design, and political significance creates a unique profile. Demand and supply statistics confirm its rarity on the market. With special editions for state occasions and design hints from both Horch and the American automotive world, the Sachsenring P 240 remains a gem for enthusiasts of East German automotive history.