An Audi model is presented on a pedestal at an event

Iconic models in the history of Audi

“Vorsprung durch Technik” is the motto that permeates the history of what is known today as AUDI AG. Many models produced by Audi over the years have shaped the history of the motorcar with their design language and technical innovations. Here we present a selection of these models – and demonstrate how many different facets “Vorsprung” can have.

The beginnings

Illustration of the Horch 1 on a grey and white background

The beginnings

Audi and its predecessor brands were among the pioneers of automotive engineering at the beginning of the 20th century. The brands covered all vehicle segments, producing everything from entry-level to luxury models.

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Horch No. 1

Illustration of the Audi 14/35 PS Type C

Audi Type C Alpine Champion

Illustration of the Audi 19/100 PS Type R Imperator

Audi Type R Imperator

Illustration of the DKW Front F 1

DKW Front F 1

United to form Auto Union AG

Illustration of the Front 225 on a white-grey background

United to form Auto Union AG

With the merger of Audi, DKW, Horch and Wanderer to form Auto Union AG in 1932, the manufacturers ensure their survival in the crisis thanks to synergies and segmentation.

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Illustration of the Audi Front UW

Audi Front UW

Illustration of the Horch 853

Horch 853

Illustration of the Wanderer W 25 K

Wanderer W 25 K

Illustration of the DKW F 5

DKW F 5

The era of the economic miracle

Illustration of the Audi 1000 SP Roadster

The era of the economic miracle

After the currency reform in 1948, the need for mobility grows in Germany. Auto Union GmbH and NSU Werke AG focus on two-wheelers and automobiles.

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Illustration of the DKW RT 125 W

DKW RT 125 W

Illustration of the DKW F 89 L (Panel van)

DKW F 89 L Schnelllaster

Illustration of the NSU Quickly

NSU Quickly

Illustration of the NSU Prinz

NSU Prinz

Illustration of the Auto Union 1000 SP

Auto Union 1000 SP

The Four Rings with a new profile

Illustration of a blue Audi 100 on a grey background

The Four Rings with a new profile

Increasing demands on cars require a reorientation, which succeeds with the revival of the traditional Audi brand.

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Illustration of the Auto Union Audi

Auto Union Audi

Illustration of the NSU Ro80 RGB

NSU Ro 80

Illustration of the Audi 100

Audi 100

Illustration of the Audi 80

Audi 80

Ascent to the premium segment

Illustration of the Audi quattro

Ascent to the premium segment

In the 1980s and 1990s, Audi repositioned itself in the luxury class with innovative technology such as quattro all-wheel drive, lightweight aluminium construction and powerful, highly efficient engines.

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Illustration of the Audi quattro

Audi quattro

Illustration of the Audi 100 (C3)

Audi 100

Illustration of the Audi Avant RS2

Avant RS 2

Illustration of the Audi A8

Audi A8

Illustration of the Audi TT

Audi TT

A group of people standing around Audi traditions models

Events

Discover the history of Audi with all your senses at one of the many events that Audi Tradition organises. We look forward to meeting you!

Learn more