Rometsch Lawrence classic cars for sale

Introduction and history of Rometsch Lawrence

Friedrich Rometsch Karosseriebau, based in Berlin, became known for building bespoke coachwork in the years after World War II. The Rometsch Lawrence debuted in 1958 as a specialist coupé distinguished by its lightweight aluminium body, hand-formed by Berlin craftsmen. Rometsch's tradition of innovation and skilled fabrication is evident in every Lawrence. The small firm had already attracted attention with individualised bodies on chassis from established manufacturers. The Lawrence represented a synthesis of technical simplicity and aesthetic sophistication—a testament to the Berlin coachbuilding scene’s creativity during the 1950s.

Model history

The Lawrence series drew its foundations from Volkswagen technology, combining proven mechanical reliability with a unique body shape unavailable from large manufacturers of the era. Preceding models from Rometsch were also based on VW chassis, as the firm had no proprietary platform. As a result, each Lawrence is closely related genetically to the Beetle, but with completely reimagined styling. Only around 85 Lawrence coupés were ever produced, and of those, roughly 30 examples are known to survive. The model did not see a direct successor within Rometsch, as coachbuilding boutique operations dwindled with the rise of mass-produced cars in the 1960s.

Highlights of Rometsch Lawrence

The Rometsch Lawrence captivates with its hand-formed aluminium coachwork—each car is a one-off, making no two examples identical. Technical underpinnings from Volkswagen mean parts availability is less of an issue for the mechanicals. Yet, the body’s craftsmanship and rarity elevate the Lawrence into a sphere few classic coupes reach. The connection to the Berlin-based Rometsch workshop and extremely low production numbers make every Lawrence a significant talking point at any show or concours.

Technical data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Each Rometsch Lawrence is essentially a special edition by virtue of its hand-built nature and extremely limited production—only around 85 were constructed. No further sub-model distinctions or factory variations are documented, though surviving models sometimes reveal unique interior details or trim variations, a result of the individual craftsmanship during manufacturing. One known example is displayed at the Volkswagen AutoMuseum Foundation.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

With its lightweight aluminium body and reliable VW flat-four, the Rometsch Lawrence offers nimble road manners for its era. Power output mirrors that of its Volkswagen contemporaries, prioritising dependability over high performance. The Lawrence’s suspension tuning, borrowed from VW components, keeps handling predictable. Transmission and drivetrain are straightforward, thanks to Volkswagen’s tried-and-true mechanicals. The real charm lies in the lightweight build, making the Lawrence slightly more agile than most other cars based on the same platform. • Rometsch Lawrence (VW flat-four engine, two-door aluminium coupé, ca. 85 units built, approx. 30 known survivors).

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Rarity and individuality characterise the Lawrence’s appearance. Each coupé was hand-shaped in aluminium, with subtle distinctions in lines and details reflecting the master craftsman's touch. The design by Johann Deutsch fuses elegant proportions with period-correct chrome accents. Interiors often include bespoke upholstery and attractive 1950s instrumentation, but no two cars are identical in trim or appointment. Options and accessories were generally specified by each customer, with owners sometimes choosing particular leather colours or dashboard details in consultation with Rometsch.

Other relevant features

No other significant features are documented for the Rometsch Lawrence outside its unique coachbuilding story and mechanical foundation. However, its combination of individuality and technical accessibility is seldom matched in the classic car landscape.

Summary

The Rometsch Lawrence is one of the rarest postwar German coachbuilt cars, with only around 30 left from a production run of 85. Handmade in Berlin on dependable Volkswagen mechanicals, each coupé fuses artisanal bodywork with everyday reliability. For collectors valuing uniqueness and craftsmanship, the Lawrence is an authentic relic of German automotive creativity.