USA vs Germany — 1950 vs 1958
| Rambler Custom Convertible Landau | 1000 1000S | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 82 hp | 55 hp |
| Torque | 150 lb-ft | 65 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,818 cc | 981 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 19.5 sec | 19.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 80 mph | 84 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 23.5 sec | 22.0 sec |
| Weight | 2,600 lbs | 1,918 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,540 mm | 2,440 mm |
| Length | 4,470 mm | 4,230 mm |
| Units Produced | 9,330 | 244,143 |
| Original MSRP | $1,808 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $45,000 | $18,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 6/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1950 Nash Rambler Custom Convertible Landau brings more power, greater rarity, stronger collectibility to the table, and the 1958 Auto Union 1000 1000S answers with quicker acceleration, higher top speed, lighter weight. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
The rivalry between USA and Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1950 Nash Rambler Custom Convertible Landau versus 1958 Auto Union 1000 1000S is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1950 Nash Rambler Custom Convertible Landau holds a clear advantage in raw power with 82 hp compared to 55 hp, a 27-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Nash Rambler uses a Inline-6 L-head (Nash 172) displacing 2,818 cc, while the Auto Union 1000 relies on a Inline-3 2-stroke with 981 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1958 Auto Union 1000 1000S edges ahead at 19.5 seconds versus 19.5 seconds. The Auto Union 1000 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 682 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 9,330 units built, the 1950 Nash Rambler Custom Convertible Landau is considerably scarcer than the Auto Union 1000's 244,143 examples. On the collector market, the 1950 Nash Rambler Custom Convertible Landau commands a significant premium over the 1958 Auto Union 1000 1000S, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1950 Nash Rambler Custom Convertible Landau rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.