Original Bertone drawing of the 1973 NSU Ro 80 Trapeze. It is a rare factory copy of the master technical blueprint made in the ’70s by Bertone.
In October 1973, Bertone presented the NSU Ro80 Trapeze in Paris, a mid-engined four-seater sports car. Its main features were economy of space, safety features and aerodynamic efficiency. The NSU Motorenwerke AG was a German automobile manufacturer founded in 1873 and acquired by VW in 1969. VW merged NSU with Auto Union, creating Audi NSU Auto Union AG, and later Audi. With the innovative Trapeze concept Bertone tried to save the German brand and the NSU Ro80 model. Unfortunately, the 1967 NSU Ro80 production model had a reputation for excessive fuel consumption and reliability issues. With the failure of the Ro80, NSU was in deep financial difficulties by 1969 when it was taken over by VW. If the NSU brand wanted to survive it needed a new and exciting sports car. Here, coachbuilder Nuccio Bertone saw a business opportunity and proposed a coupe version of the Ro80. The task was handed over to head designer Marcello Gandini. He moved the Ro80 995cc engine from the front to the rear axle. He then applied smart packaging which included moving the backseats further apart and the front seats closer together. This provided more legroom for the rear passengers. He drew the powertrain placement and the four seats in a trapeze layout (hence the name, Trapeze). The innovative packaging was combined with a curving Lancia Stratos-inspired windshield. The Trapeze was extensively featured in magazines and newspapers but ultimately didn’t save NSU from going under. The concept car survives in the Bertone Collection.
Origin
The blueprint originates from a long-term ex-Bertone and Alfa Romeo employee who kept these pieces in his private collection.
Certificate
The blueprint is accompanied by our EVC certificate to provide proof of authenticity.
Size Details
125 x 43 cm
Material
The drawing is printed on semi-transparent yellowish acetate tracing paper. It is a nonflammable mildew-proof material that was used in factory workshops.
International Shipping Available
EU / USA / Canada Traceable Shipping: €35 (5 - 7 days)
Worldwide International Traceable Shipping: €50 (7 - 10 days)
No Returns
Please note that this blueprint is a rare collectable and not a commercially printed product. I don’t offer returns on them. The blueprint is 50 years old and has imperfections and fading. If the blueprint is damaged by the courier, please get in touch via email within 4 weeks with photos and a description of the damage.