When someone mentions East German communist regime, the first thing that comes to mind is of course racing. While East Germany may have not been known for being extravagant, driver Heinz Melkus was able to create a competitive racecar from some ancient parts.

Melkus took the three-cylinder two-stroke engine and created a 75 hp racer that could hit a top speed of 102 mph. Despite socialist economic conditions, Melkus was somehow able to create 101 units of the RS1000 between 1969 and 1979. Now his son and grandson have found building replica models so popular that they're going full speed a head on a new model.

We first caught wind of the RS2000 back in 2006, but now it seems like thw car is finally ready for prime time. Just like the original car, the RS2000 will keep gullwing doors and lightweight (under 2100 lbs). Unlike the RS1000, the RS2000 will have a modern engine with much more power -- a 1.8-liter four-cylinder making 270 hp for the street and 320 hp in supercharged race form. Also unlike the first car, there should be slightly less problems exporting the RS2000.

The debut for the RS2000 is scheduled for November, and each car should cost €100,000 (about $135,000 at current rates). At that price Melkus hopes it can churn out 25 cars a year.

.