The NSU K 70 was set to go public in March 1969, but plans were halted just weeks before the launch as Volkswagen took over Auto-Union, which included both AUDI and NSU.

The NSU K 70 was intended to compliment the rotary-engine powered NSU Ro 80. Auto-Union, and NSU in particular, was in bad financial shape since the Ro 80 engine didn't meet with expectations. Although the K 70 was a step backward in terms of its more conventional body and engine, it was still a very modern car for the late sixties. The car featured front wheel drive, beautiful road holding, a nice roomy interior, a large luggage compartment, and a high standard for safety.

On the other hand, VW was seeking the technology necessary to switch from its antiquated air-cooled/rear-engine designs to modern cars with water-cooled engines and front wheel drive. Volkswagen's Polo/Golf/Passat range of cars were developed from Audi designs. Read on...