1926 | Hanomag 2/10

Empty weight: 370 kg
GVW: 370 kg
Top speed: 60 km/h

• One of the most successful German light cars of its day
• One of Peter Bühner's last projects
• Offered for restoration
• A rare survivor

Hannoversche Maschinenfabrik AG (Hanomag) was founded in 1846 as a constructor of steam locomotives, and went on to build commercial vehicles, cars, tractors, etc. Hanomag's first motor car was launched in 1925: this was the 2/10 PS two-seater 'Kommissbrot' (literally 'army bread'), so called because its shape resembled that of an army-issue loaf. The 2/10 PS was powered by a rear-mounted 499cc 10hp single-cylinder water-cooled engine, which drove the rear axle by a chain (there was no differential). Keeping weight to a minimum was a design priority, and the first (open) version weighed only 370kg. A closed version followed later. Top speed was around 60km/h.

Named 'Zweisitzer Limousine' (two-seat limousine) by the company, the Hanomag 'Kommissbrot' is historically significant as the first German car to be manufactured on a moving assembly line, as pioneered by Ford; in 1927 and 1928 Hanomag were building 80 cars per day. Production ceased after three years when 15,775 had been made, very few of which survive. Despite being the best selling car in Germany at the time, the 'Kommissbrot' did not make any money for Hanomag, which turned to more conventional cars that would help it into financial stability.

This charming Hanomag 'Kommissbrot' was one of Peter Bühner's last projects and has not been completed. This is potentially most rewarding project, but interest parties should satisfy themselves with regard to its completeness or otherwise prior to bidding. The car is offered with a cancelled German Kraffahrzeugbrief dating from 1966, an original owner's manual (German language), and numerous magazine articles relating to the model. A very modern looking car for its age, '6307' is one of the very rare surviving 2/10 PS models and is worthy of a place in any important collection.