IFA - F9 Cabrio - 1955

GENERAL

The IFA F9, which was later rebadged as the EMW 309, is a compact vehicle manufactured under Soviet and East German administration between 1949 and 1956. Production began in Zwickau at the former Auto Union plant before transferring in 1953 to the former BMW factory in Eisenach, operating under the EMW name. This specific 1955 model is a rare Cabriolet (309-2) version, a body style produced in much smaller numbers than the standard saloon. The F9 is historically significant as its underpinnings directly evolved into the subsequent Wartburg 311 series. This particular example was sold new in Finland and has been preserved by only three main owners throughout its life.

BODYWORK & PAINT

The body remains in very good condition, supported by photographic evidence from prior to its restoration showing the car was a solid, rust-free candidate. It has recently undergone a mild restoration including a beautiful two-tone violet and black paint finish. While the bumpers have been professionally re-chromed, the windows, lights, and various exterior fixings remain original to the vehicle. A single previous weld is visible on the undercarriage, but the structure is otherwise untouched and completely free of corrosion.

TECHNICAL

The car is mechanically in order and provides a good driving experience. Recent maintenance includes a full service of the braking system and an engine oil change. During the restoration process, it was discovered that many of the original fittings are stamped with the number 37, a matching mark that is also found within the engine bay, suggesting a high level of original component retention.

INTERIOR

The interior maintains a lovely brown aesthetic and benefits from a newly fitted soft-top roof and fresh carpeting. The seats and various cabin fittings are the original items the car was equipped with from the factory. The overall cabin environment is described as being in great original condition, balancing the recent renewals with well-preserved historic features.

DOCUMENTS

The vehicle is well-documented with a copy of the original 1955 registration and several vintage registration certificates. After being off the road for many years, it has been re-registered with current Finnish EU documentation, ensuring that registration in another country will be a straightforward process. It successfully passed a technical inspection (MOT/TUV) on October 17, 2025, without any notes, and was officially registered as a certified Museum Vehicle shortly thereafter.

COLLECTION

This vehicle is located in Finland. The current owner possesses a selection of photographs documenting the car’s state before the restoration work began, which will be provided to the next custodian to verify the quality of the original base vehicle.

OTHER INFORMATION

The IFA F9 was a direct descendant of the DKW F9 prototype developed in 1939. Because it utilized a three-cylinder, two-stroke engine—a design intended to compete with the Volkswagen Beetle—it remains a distinctive piece of Cold War automotive engineering. Finding a surviving Cabriolet version in this condition is an exceptional opportunity for collectors of Eastern European or Auto Union-related marques.