Unearthing Automotive Gold: Inside an Abandoned Factory Filled with Classic German Cars
When we envision derelict classic cars, our minds often wander to junkyards and dusty barns. However, tucked away in obscurity lies an abandoned factory in a quaint East German village that's a treasure trove for any automotive enthusiast. Documented by Colin, also known as 'The Bearded Explorer,' this forsaken plant is home to a fleet of oldtimers that have been carefully tucked away by a local car aficionado named Gunther. This vintage haven houses an impressive collection of German classics, including a BMW 7 Series E23.
This old plant, shuttered since the 1980s, now serves as a time capsule filled with rare vehicular gems and more common relics from the '80s and '90s. At a cursory glance, the collection may not seem extravagant. However, among the rusting frames and faded paint jobs lie a few noteworthy vehicles that would pique any enthusiast's interest. Topping the list is a Volkswagen Corrado G60, a compact sports car that served as a spunky alternative to the Golf.
The Volkswagen Corrado G60
Manufactured between 1988 and 1995, the Corrado was built on the same platform as the second-generation Golf and Jetta. Despite its humble underpinnings, the Corrado never reached mass-market status, with just 97,521 units produced—half of which found homes in the United States. The Corrado came in various trims powered by 1.8- and 2.0-liter four-cylinder engines. But the G60 variant stood out with its supercharged 1.8-liter engine pushing 158 horsepower, bridging the gap between the base model and the high-performance VR6 variant.
Although exact numbers are hard to come by, it's estimated that no more than 20% of the Corrado models built featured the G60's supercharged engine. That places production figures at fewer than 18,000 units, making it a coveted piece for collectors and a star among Gunther's stockpile.
Volkswagen Jetta and the Iconic Beetle
Next on our list from this treasure chest is a first-generation Volkswagen Jetta. Known predominantly as a four-door sedan, Volkswagen also produced a rarer two-door version, aimed at customers looking for a slightly different ride than the aging Beetle it was set to replace. In Gunther's possession, this Jetta adds a unique flavor to his classic collection.
Speaking of the Beetle, no classic car collection would be complete without Volkswagen's most iconic model. Gunther's Beetle shines in its own right, having undergone a restoration in the 1970s and kept in pristine condition ever since. While it hasn't been driven in years, it stands as a testament to the timeless appeal of one of the world's most beloved cars.
The BMW 7 Series E23
The crown jewel of Gunther's collection is arguably the first-generation BMW 7 Series, known as the E23. Produced from 1977 to 1986, the E23 inaugurated BMW's luxury sedan lineup, supplanting the E3 New Six. Though this particular example has experienced an engine swap and hasn't seen the open road in a while, its condition is surprisingly well maintained, presenting a tantalizing prospect for any restorer.
In a world where many classics end up rusting away in obscurity, Gunther’s collection serves as both a time capsule and a homage to automotive history. With any luck, more of these gems will see revival rather than decay. Until then, these hidden treasures remain part of an evocative narrative that’s a dream come true for car lovers everywhere.
