The 1953 Auto-Quartett “Autos aus aller Welt”, published by ASS (Vereinigte Altenburger und Stralsunder Spielkarten-Fabriken A.G.) as an “auf 1953 abgestellte Neuauflage” (updated edition adjusted for 1953 models), stands as one of the earliest technically playable car quartet card games. Building on the pioneering 1952 original, this 36-card set (plus a rule card and often an advertising card) features a diverse selection of automobiles from around the world, showcasing production cars like the Mercedes 300 S Coupe (which graces the title card), Volkswagen Beetle, early Ferraris, Borgward Hansa, Goliath, Lloyd, Veritas, Nash, and various other European and international marques from the post-war era. Printed primarily in black-and-white with technical specifications for comparison—such as horsepower, top speed, engine displacement, cylinder count, weight, and price—the game invites players to compete by “trumping” opponents with superior stats in classic quartet fashion.
A unique highlight among the mostly road-going vehicles is a single auto racing card: the Mercedes 3L Rennwagen (Mercedes 3-liter racing car), representing the storied Mercedes-Benz racing heritage of the time and adding a thrilling motorsport element to the otherwise civilian-focused lineup. As a highly collectible vintage item today, complete sets in good condition with their original box remain prized by automobilia enthusiasts and quartet collectors in Europe and beyond.
