Steyr 'Baby': The Austrian Automotive Lesser Known Legacy

Lesser Known - Who hasn't heard of the iconic VW Beetle? It's a car that's not only known for its distinctive and timeless rounded shape, often compared to a 'bug' or a 'frog,' but it also holds the record for one of the longest production runs in automotive history, spanning from 1938 to 2003, according to Wikipedia.

The 1939 Steyr Type 55 was auctioned by Bonhams in September 2007 and changed hands for approximately £5,520 (equivalent to Rp. 106,384,716). (Picture from: Bonham)

But today, we're not here to delve into the VW Beetle's fascinating history. Instead, let's turn our attention to one of the lesser-known automobiles that emerged from the creative genius of Ferdinand Porsche during his involvement in the 'Volkswagen' project, the brainchild of the people's car. This unique car was introduced to the world by an Austrian automotive company in 1936. So, what's the story behind this vehicle?

The 1939 Steyr Type 55 was auctioned by Bonhams in September 2007 and changed hands for approximately £5,520 (equivalent to Rp. 106,384,716). (Picture from: Bonham)

As revealed by Bonhams, the vehicle that bears a striking resemblance to the VW Beetle is none other than the 1939 Steyr Type 55 Saloon, a creation initially envisioned by Ferdinand Porsche and brought to life by the Austrian arms manufacturer Steyr, which transitioned into the world of automobile manufacturing after World War I and merged with Austro-Daimler in 1935. By the time Ferdinand Porsche had moved on from the company, the Steyr Type 50, the first production car reminiscent of the Beetle, was introduced in 1936, incorporating many innovative concepts that would later be echoed in Porsche's iconic 'Beetle' design.

The 1936 Steyr Type 50 is powered by a 978 cc, horizontally-opposed, water-cooled, side-valve four-cylinder engine, and was officially unveiled to the public at the 1936 Berlin Motor Show. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

The sleek and aerodynamic body of the Steyr Type 50 received approval for construction in 1935 under the guidance of Steyr's Director Karl Jenschke. However, just a month later, in November of the same year, Jenschke departed to take up the role of chief designer at the German Adler manufacturer in Frankfurt/Main. The Steyr Type 50 was officially unveiled to the public at the 1936 Berlin Motor Show.

The 1938 Steyr Type 55 sat on display at the Technical Museum Vienna, and powered by a revised 1,158cc powerplant. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

Often referred to as the 'Austrian Volkswagen,' the Steyr Type 50 endearingly earned the nickname 'Steyr Baby'. Despite its outward resemblance to the VW Beetle, the Type 50 had many advanced features, including all-round independent suspension and was propelled by a 978cc, horizontally-opposed, water-cooled, side-valve four-cylinder engine, mounted in the front and driving the rear wheels.

The compact Steyr offered more spacious seating and luggage capacity compared to Porsche's Volkswagen, all within a shorter overall length. It also boasted a large sheet metal sliding roof and hydraulic brakes, a significant improvement over the early Volkswagens' cable-operated braking system.

The 1938 Steyr Type 55 while attended at the Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)

In 1938, the Steyr 'Baby' Type 50 underwent a revision with a larger engine, now a 1,158cc powerplant, while retaining its familiar appearance. This updated version was named the Steyr Type 55. Ultimately, production of the Steyr 'Baby' continued until 1940, with a total of 13,000 units of the 'Steyr-Babys' finding homes. Notably, the 1959 Steyr Type 55 on pictured, was auctioned by Bonhams in September 2007 and changed hands for approximately £5,520 (equivalent to Rp. 106,384,716).

In summary, while the VW Beetle may steal the limelight when it comes to unique and enduring automotive designs, the Steyr Type 50 and Type 55, often referred to as the 'Austrian Volkswagen' or 'Steyr Baby,' stands as a lesser-known but equally fascinating piece of automotive history. Its resemblance to the VW Beetle may catch your eye, but its innovative features, improved space, and advanced engineering are what make it a noteworthy addition to the world of classic cars. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | WIKIPEDIA | BONHAM | CONCEPTCARZ ]

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