Borgward Hansa 1500 RS History
Catalog record
This is a brief catalog introduction with limited source documentation. A licensed, identity-checked lead photograph has not yet been added for this page. Detailed year, configuration and ownership coverage must be identified separately; this page is not a complete vehicle catalog.
Start with a make and model. Add a year where a detailed guide is available.
Model history available. Detailed year guides are not published for this model.
Browse this model's history and yearsHistory
The Borgward 1500 RS grew out of a record-breaking Hansa 1500 project and was first presented at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 1951. Nine cars were built and progressively developed through 1958, competing in the up-to-1500 cc class at Le Mans and other major events. Borgward engineer Karl Ludwig Brandt designed a purpose-built racing engine with twin overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, and direct fuel injection — technology that was genuinely advanced for the mid-1950s.
In its developed form the 1498 cc engine produced well over 113–115 PS at 6000 rpm with a 9.8:1 compression ratio, and eventually exceeded 160 PS in final trim. The chassis used a box frame with double-wishbone front suspension and a De Dion rear axle. The RS was broadly competitive but consistently outpaced by the Porsche 550, which possessed superior chassis dynamics; Borgward acknowledged this gap and ended the racing programme as the company's financial troubles mounted.
Body styles
- Open sports racer
Related models
Collect the nameplate
Find a scale model of the Borgward Hansa 1500 RS
Search Amazon across available years, colors, and scales. Exact releases vary, so confirm the listing before ordering.