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In 1957 a new Zündapp Janus 750 offered the discerning motorist a technical specification that included rack & pinion steering, four-speed transmission, front Macpherson struts and a 12-volt electrical system. Better still, it was ‘a real family car’ that allowed ‘anybody sitting on the rear seats ample legroom and unobstructed view in all direction’ while the two benches could be arranged to form a double bed.

Above all, the Janus boasted an engine mounted between the seats driving the rear wheels.  This was the car that the Nuremberg motorcycle manufacturer hoped would find favour with Europe’s microcar buyers.  The basic concept was the creation of Claudius Dornier, the son of the famous aeronautical designer Claude, who saw a need for cheap transport in post-war Germany.

In 1955 Zündapp acquired a licence from the Doniers and set about refining their “Delta” prototype for production. The original top-hinged doors needed to be replaced as they were too difficult for the occupants to close while Plexiglass side windows helped to minimise weight. Sales commenced in June 1957.

Few owners acquired a Janus with autobahn (motorway) transport in mind as the top speed was just 50 mph, with an acceleration time of 38 seconds. The 245cc single-cylinder two-stroke unit, familiar to Bella 201 scooter riders, was capable of only 14 horsepower - although Zündapp had entered into failed negotiations with Fiat for the 600’s 663cc plant.  However, a Janus did manage to achieve a class victory at the Liege-Brescia-Liege Rally.

Enthusiasts of the Janus pointed out that it rode extremely well by microcar standards and that its list of standard equipment included an exterior mirror, a column lock, an engine immobiliser and a detachable steering wheel (!). The array of optional extras ranged from a heater and a sunroof to rear sun visors and duotone paint.

Sales were mainly restricted to the home market, although a dozen examples did find their way to a Louisiana motorcycle dealership. In 1957 Road & Track magazine referred to it as ‘a four-passenger vehicle that looks like two Isettas glued together, back to back’.  The Janus might have stood a chance as smart New York transport, but the thought of such a bubble car on a Freeway is beyond terrifying.

 

Zündapp hoped to sell 15,000 units per year, but production ended in 1958 after just 6,902 examples, and the company was never to build another car. One problem was the noise levels, and another was poor sealing of the engine compartment. The timing of its launch was also unfortunate as the “Wirtschaftswunder” economic miracle resulted in motorists seeking larger vehicles and there remained the issue that too many passengers disliked the rear-facing seat. However, with optional fake steering wheel for the back door, those possessing a warped sense of humour could always traumatise any over-taking Mercedes-Benz “Ponton”…

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We have links with some of the top classic car clubs around the country and some of our policies even offer discounts of up to 25% for club members.

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• Historic rally cover
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