Zundapp Janus 250
The Zundapp Janus represented the most unconventional solution to microcar packaging. Designed by aircraft engineer Dornier, it placed passengers back-to-back with entry doors at both front and rear. The name referenced Janus, the Roman god with two faces looking in opposite directions. The single-cylinder two-stroke engine sat in the center of the chassis driving the rear wheels. This unique layout meant front and rear passengers each had their own doors and legroom, but rear passengers rode backward. The concept was logical but proved too weird for buyers. Despite motorcycle company Zundapp's quality construction, only 6,902 were sold in two years before the company abandoned car production. Today the Janus is celebrated as one of the strangest production cars ever built.
Very rare and highly collectible. Both front and rear doors must function properly. Two-stroke engine is simple motorcycle technology. Check for rust in floor pans and door sills. Many were driven hard and poorly maintained. Original condition examples command premium prices. Parts are scarce but simple mechanical specification helps. Unusual design ensures strong interest from collectors.
Only 6,902 units produced from 1957-1958. Designed by Dornier aircraft company. Zundapp was primarily a motorcycle manufacturer and returned to that core business after Janus failure. The back-to-back seating concept was never attempted again. Most examples were scrapped, making survivors highly valuable.