1934 Horch 780 B Sportcabriolet
- Engine
- 4.9L inline-six, overhead cam, 100 bhp
- Colour
- Royal Blue
The Horch Type 780 B was among the most refined products of the German marque, produced in limited numbers between 1932 and 1934 with a 4.9-litre overhead-cam inline engine developing 100 bhp. This example, the third-to-last 780 B chassis built, was delivered in 1934 and later surfaced in Belarus, where it was found in 2005 without its original coachwork. Acquired by Horch Classic GmbH, it received a seven-year restoration pairing the chassis with a Gläser-style Sportcabriolet body originally built for a Horch 710, winning a Best Restoration award at the 2013 Schloss Dyck Classic Days concours.
Ownership
- —Auction saleEstimate US$350,000 – US$500,000
- → 2005Unknown wartime/postwar custodian in Belarusnone documentation
Vehicle ended up in Belarus following the conclusion of World War II and remained there until its rediscovery in 2005. Original coachwork was lost at some point during this period.
- 2005 →Private saleHorch Classic GmbHpartial documentation
Marque specialists who acquired the car after its discovery and undertook a seven-year restoration, fitting a Gläser-style Sportcabriolet body from a Horch 710 and overhauling all major mechanical components.
Competition
- 20132013 Jewels in the Park Concours d'Elegance at Classic Days, Schloss DyckBest Restoration award
The car was exhibited at this German concours event following completion of its restoration and received recognition for the quality of that work.
Maintenance & restoration
- —ModificationHorch Classic GmbH
The original gearbox was replaced with a contemporary Getrag five-speed transmission to improve drivability.
This modification was carried out as part of the broader restoration programme.
- —RestorationHorch Classic GmbH
A comprehensive seven-year restoration was undertaken, encompassing structural frame cleaning and selective replacement of corroded sections, overhaul of the engine (with new bearings, pistons, and modern radial oil seals), front and rear axles, differential, gearbox, and steering gear. Copper fuel lines and stainless steel exhaust were fitted. The body's timber framework, outer panels, and hood bows were found in sound condition and retained where feasible. The car was finished in Royal Blue with grey leather interior embroidered with the marque's logo and a grey cloth hood.
The restoration drew on extensive research and period-correct components; supporting photographs of the process are included in the car's file.
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