AUDI Typ R "Imperator" 1927-1929 Photos, engines & full specs

Audi introduced the Type R in 1927 as a successor for the Type M, but with a lighter bodywork and better performances, but wasn't that convincing on the market.

After leaving the Horch car manufacturer, which he established in 1904, August Horch started a new company, which he wasn't allowed to name it after his name. He translated the German name into Latin, and the result was Audi, which is a verb for "to hear." He aimed high and produced the Type M, which was too expensive for an unknown brand, and it wasn't successful. In 1927 he came with another model, the Type R, which was shorter, lighter, and less expensive than its predecessor. Still, the luxurious limousine was too expensive for those times, and Audi sold just 145 cars.

The Type R Limousine was big and long even for those times. Due to its size and over-engineering solution, it was named Imperator (Emperor), and it was indeed a majestic car. Its short overhang and long engine compartment were followed by a closed cabin with three side windows and an abrupt end. The car's side steps continued its front fenders. On each side of the engine compartment, Audi installed a spare wheel.

Inside, the Imperator offered a large interior for the four-door version thanks to its 3.6-meter (142 "5") wheelbase. Its rear-hinged rear doors allowed an easier ingress and egress from the car. At the front, the carmaker installed the dials and gauges in the middle of the dash panel.

From the technical point of view, the Typ R slacked behind its predecessor, the Typ M. It featured a three-speed manual gearbox instead of four. Audi fitted the Imperator with mechanical brakes, while the model it replaced trusted on a hydraulic system, which was more effective but less reliable.