Currently reading: Melkus returns with RS 2000
East German manufacturer brings new model to Frankfurt show

Melkus, an East German manufacturer that made cars from Trabant and Wartburg parts, has revealed its first car in over 20 years.

Reports suggest the gullwing prototype will carry the name RS 2000 - but it has nothing to do with Ford's iconic car. The car was launched at the Frankfurt motor show.

The new car has its engine mid-mounted and will likely be powered by 1.8-litre petrol units, possibly sourced from VW, with power outputs between 150bhp and 200bhp.

There is also talk of a 300bhp ‘GT’ mode, although overall production of the RS 2000 will be limited to around 25 cars a year. The range is expected to start at 100,000 euros (£92,000).

Melkus once produced single-seat racing cars and sports cars, before folding in the mid-eighties. Just 100 of these cars were built and they used a tuned Wartburg 3-cylinder engine.

The company was the brainchild of race driver Heinz Melkus and the competition cars could be seen in Formula 3, Formula Junior and Formula E.

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