Melkus to Debut Lightweight RS 2000 Sports Car at Frankfurt Show

Posted Today 08:56 AM by Nate Martinez
Category: Auto Shows, Europe, Frankfurt Motor Show

Chances are, you've probably never heard of Melkus Sportwagen, but it was a big time player in various European Formula series during the early 1950s and '60s, creating some of the fastest race-winning chassis. Also little known is that the small East German outfit has produced a few limited edition roadcars and is looking to rekindle its street cred after a 20-year hiatus with a new model set to debut at this September's Frankfurt Motor Show. In line with the marque's elder RS 1000 sports car of the 1980s, the latest model -- named the RS 2000 -- features Melkus' iconic gullwing door design. Unique on these doors is their incorporation of the front half roof structure. According to engineers, when opened, the gullwings only extend a few centimeters past the side profile, thus allowing for easier passenger entry and exit in tight parking spaces or garages. (Although the doors do make us wonder about low ceilings). Its bodywork was penned with close attention to aerodynamic efficiency. Just as the case with most contemporary sports cars, a pronounced lower front lip with matching side skits and rear diffuser comprise the sculpted carbon fiber bodywork. Lateral airflow vents assist in cooling both the rear brakes and its rumored 1.8L, VW-sourced engine (150 to 200-hp). Designers closed the RS 2000's entire undertray in order to further enhance aerodynamics. After three years of fine tuning, the body shell -- complete with a Crashbox monocoque -- reportedly weighs less than 1000 lbs, Melkus says. Only 25 RS 2000 are scheduled to be made per year at a speculated price of around $136,000, with the first deliveries to commence this November. Rumor also has it that a higher powered edition packing around 300-hp will be available sometime soon as well. More details are expected in the near furture to stay tuned to MT Online. Source: Melkus, Autocar