Horch 853

Total Production: 619 1935 - 1940
August Horch began producing vehicles with Karl Benz before 1899, after which he built vehicles under his name, August Horch & Cie. In 1909, after disputes with shareholders, he departed from his company and founded Audi, which is the Latin translation of his surname. The production of the Horch automobile continued without their founder using his name.

In the early part of the 20th century, automobiles appeared less like horseless carriages and more like automobiles. The tiller steering and high buggy wheels became a thing of the past, and the engine found its way to the front of the vehicle.

In 1926, a new model was introduced powered by a straight-eight engine. This engine was used by the company for many years. Over the years, its displacement size grew, as did the horsepower rating. This engine was instrumental in providing the power plant necessary to propel the luxurious Horch automobiles to quick speeds while maintaining a competitive price. As was the case with most early automotive manufacturers, Horch would either build the entire vehicle or merely supply the chassis for a coachbuilder to outfit the vehicle.

Horch was instrumental in continuing the growth of Audi as a company and on the race track. During World War I, the direction of Audi switched to producing vehicles for the military.

As was the case for most automotive companies, times were changing and becoming increasingly difficult to stay competitive and stay in business. In 1932, due to financial problems, August sold Audi. It became part of Auto Union. Auto Union comprised Horch, Das Kleine Wunder, Audi, and Wanderer. The Union was essential a way to continue the production of automobiles while providing the financial support necessary to fuel automotive racing and technology.

The Horch Series 850 featured the 100 horsepower straight-eight engine, luxury, style, and sophistication. The Model 853 was fitted to a shorter wheelbase and used a DeDion axle rear suspension. To stay competitive, The Model 853A became available in 1937 and featured a 120-horsepower straight-eight engine.

When World War II began, production of the Horch Automobiles ceased.
By Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2008