Riga Motor Museum Brings a Unique 1936 Auto Union Type C V16 Racing Car to Riga’s 825th Anniversary Celebrations

Foto: copilot.microsoft.com | Autors: Aivis Ceriņš | 2026.08.09

On 15 August 2026, the Riga Motor Museum will present an extraordinary historical highlight: for the first time ever in Latvia, visitors will be able to see a precisely crafted replica of the legendary 1936 Auto Union Type C V16 racing car, delivered directly from the Audi Museum in Germany. The initiative is part of Riga’s 825th anniversary celebrations and has been made possible through the collaboration of Audi Tradition, Moller Auto, RA Events and the Riga Motor Museum. Together, they aim to showcase one of the brightest icons of pre‑war automotive engineering.

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Ventspilī pat govs zied!

Pastaigā pa Ventspili sameklē Puķu govi, Zaķu ģimeni, Ziedu pulksteni un citus ziedu tēlus – košas foto pieturas visā pilsētā.

Ventspils TIC

The Auto Union Type C was a symbol of technological progress and engineering excellence in the 1930s. Equipped with a 520‑horsepower V16 engine, the car dominated European racing circuits, achieving 33 victories in 59 races. The replica arriving in Riga is an exact reconstruction of the original machine, offering visitors a rare opportunity to experience the atmosphere and spirit of pre‑war motorsport.

The celebration day will begin with the official presentation of the car at the Riga Motor Museum, where guests will be able to explore its technical story and historical significance. The programme will continue at the Biķernieki racetrack—celebrating its own 60th anniversary in 2026—where the Auto Union Type C will perform several demonstration laps, allowing spectators to hear and feel the unmistakable sound of the V16 engine.

From 10:30 to 11:30 on 15 August, the car will take part in a festive parade drive through Riga, finishing at the Freedom Monument. The vehicle will be driven by renowned Audi factory driver and three‑time 24 Hours of Le Mans winner Dindo Capello, whose presence adds a special sporting and historical dimension to the event.

At the Freedom Monument, the car will remain on display until 18:00. Throughout the day, visitors will have the opportunity to meet Dindo Capello in person, receive his autograph on a sports card, and ask questions about motorsport history and Audi’s legendary racing achievements.

This event is a truly exceptional addition to Riga’s anniversary programme—an opportunity for every city guest and motorsport enthusiast to witness a pre‑war racing legend up close. The Auto Union Type C not only shaped the technological progress of its era but also inspired generations of engineers and racers who followed.

This article was translated from Latvian into English with the assistance of artificial intelligence.