Audi Front classic cars for sale

History of the Audi Front

The Audi Front was introduced during the early 1930s – a turbulent period for the brand. At a time when rear-wheel drive dominated German roads, Audi broke with convention by presenting the Front UW 220 in 1933: Europe’s first straight-six front-wheel drive car. Developed to reposition Audi into the upper-mid market category, the Front also marked a phase where Audi shifted away from the luxury segment. This innovation led to instant attention and a strong start in sales. Its reputation for elegant engineering and driveability began to reshape perceptions of the company. The original Front UW 220 was produced for less than two years, before being replaced by the more powerful Front UW 225. The Front was the only Audi to be built in significant numbers throughout the pre-war mid-1930s.

Model history

The first Audi Front, the UW 220, appeared in 1933 and remained in production until mid-1935. Distinguished by its innovative front-wheel drive layout mated to a 2-litre six-cylinder engine, it filled an exclusive niche. In 1935, the UW 225 replaced the original, its enlarged 2.25-litre six-cylinder providing improved performance. Both models could be ordered in various body styles—including four-door saloons and two-door cabriolets. Production ceased in April 1938, and the Front gave way to subsequent models that returned to more conventional layouts.

Highlights of the Audi Front

Audi Front models are renowned for their technical boldness: the combination of a six-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive was entirely new for European production cars of the era. The decision to target the upper-middle class, and to move away from pure luxury, resulted in a robust, elegant vehicle offering impressive performance for its day. The availability of the Front in several versions—from practical four-door saloons to stylish convertibles—further boosted its appeal among contemporary buyers. Its maximum speed of 100 km/h was remarkable in the early 1930s.

Technical data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

The most collectible variations of the Audi Front are the two-door cabriolets—produced in limited quantities and sought-after for their open-top design and elegance. The initial UW 220 and the later UW 225 are further distinguished due to their respective engine sizes and rarity, especially in original, unrestored condition.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

Due to the automotive technology of the 1930s, Audi Fronts feature period-specific mechanical systems that may require regular inspection: front-wheel drive components, gearbox synchronisation, and engine cooling systems can all show their age. Parts sourcing and expertise are essential, given the complex front-drive setup, and preservation of authentic components is key for historical accuracy when maintaining these vehicles.

Engine, Performance, Transmission, and Handling

The six-cylinder engine provided smooth, linear acceleration, making the Audi Front an advanced tourer for its era. Front-wheel drive granted improved handling and stability compared to contemporary rear-driven rivals, especially on slippery surfaces—a technology that would not become mainstream until decades later. The four-speed manual transmission demanded precision from the driver, while the robust chassis ensured both durability and passenger comfort. Notable models include the Audi Front UW 220, offering 40 PS from a 2.0-litre engine, and the later UW 225 with a more powerful 2.25-litre unit. The UW 225 especially stands out for its improved top speed and broader torque band.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Crafted at a time when German automakers prized solid construction and refinement, the Audi Front displayed an understated exterior accented by chrome highlights and clean lines. The four-door saloon exuded practicality, while the two-door cabriolet boasted elegant, sweeping coachwork—a favourite among style-conscious buyers. Interior materials ranged from durable cloths to fine leathers in higher-spec models. Notable features included period instrumentation, steering wheel-mounted gear selectors (in some configurations), and genuine wood trim. Paint colours were typically sober—dark blues, greys, and greens—though buyers with means could order bespoke finishes. Accessories like fog lamps, luggage racks, and deluxe radios added character and utility.

Other relevant features

Production numbers for the Audi Front remained modest compared to later models, making period documentation, original accessories, and unmodified examples especially significant for enthusiasts and historians alike.

Summary

The Audi Front is an undeniably important milestone in automotive engineering—pioneering both the marriage of six-cylinder power and front-wheel drive. With its distinctive bodywork and 1930s character, it remains a staple for fans of early technical innovation. A survivor from an era in which boldness dictated new directions for both Audi and the wider industry, any surviving Front stands as a testament to its era’s ambition and ingenuity.