The Zündapp Janus is a relic of the so-called motorization wave after the Second World War: With the "Janus" microcar, built from 1957 to 1958, the Nuremberg Zündapp factories closed a brief gap in the market between motorcycles and automobiles. Today, this curious-looking vehicle is a sought-after rarity. In cooperation with the Zündapp Janus IG and the Museum of Industrial Culture, Retro Classics Bavaria is dedicating a special show to the "Knutschkugel" in the foyer, Hall 3A.
Historical context
In the economic miracle country of the 1950s, the mobile roof over one's head quickly became a status symbol. However, there was often more than just a lack of small change to buy a car: a large proportion of the mobile population did not yet have a car driver's license. Various German manufacturers filled this vacuum with peculiar vehicles known as scooters. BMW built the legendary Isetta (a licensed production based on the Iso Isetta design), Heinkel its Kabine - and Zündapp the Janus, whose type designation was borrowed from the two-headed Roman god of the same name.
The double front-door model offered undeniable advantages: Thanks to independent suspension, hydraulic four-wheel brakes and a mid-mounted engine, the car scored points with its responsive handling; a motorcycle license obtained before 1955 was sufficient for the 250 cubic centimetres of displacement. In addition, the back-to-back bench seats - hence the "divine" name - could be folded down to form a single transport or reclining surface. An unbeatable advantage in the age of emerging camping tourism.
Decline
However, the Janus failed to achieve a major breakthrough on Germany's roads: the generous head and legroom was unable to compensate for the high noise levels in the interior due to the design, occasional odors and the low tractive power of the single-cylinder engine. Towards the end of the decade, the price advantage over vehicles such as the Goggomobil or the Beetle also dwindled. In total, only 6,902 units left the Nuremberg factory halls.
Retro Classics Bavaria for the third time
Retro Classics Bavaria is taking place for the third time this year at the Nürnberg Messe exhibition center. At the sister event of the trade fair for driving culture, Retro Classic in Stuttgart, national and international car manufacturers, dealers, collectors and specialists will once again present the whole world of classic automobiles at the end of the season: classic cars, youngtimers, neo-classics, parts and accessories on an area of around 40,000 square meters. As a stylish meeting place for the scene, the trade fair also offers the opportunity for stimulating conversations and professional exchanges. Top-class special shows, an informative supporting program and a large vehicle sales market round off the trade fair's diverse offering.
More information about the event can be found on the official event website
