Trabant 601S de Luxe (1989)
How many cars can claim a 27-year production run? How many cars can boast 2.8 million examples built? Such cars are icons. The Trabant was loved by millions of people all over the world and will live on in their memory for decades to come. Not only for the charming outline of its compact bodywork, but also for the sound and smell of the classic two-stroke engine.
When production began in 1963, the Trabant was notable in many ways. It was equipped with front wheel drive, a low maintenance engine, unitary construction, composite bodywork and independent suspension all around.
The car now being offered at auction is a fabulous example of the marque. It is a “601S De Luxe” version of the Trabant Estate, built in the second last year of production: 1989. The “S” stands for “Sonderwunsch” (Special Edition), which includes fog lamps and an odometer. The “De Luxe” specification involves the addition of two-tone paint and chrome bumpers. Furthermore, this estate is fitted with luxury upholstery, a rear window wiper, period-correct hubcaps and a towbar. It’s hard to find such a complete example of this handsome model.
This is a rare opportunity to obtain a symbol so redolent of a bygone era. It is one of the few survivors from all the thousands of cars that left the VEB Sachsenring factory in Zwickau, Sachsen in former East Germany.
The car was put aside for many years and is not supplied with a valid registration. It is, however, ready to be taken care of by its next enthusiast owner. Recommissioning is advised.