The name DKW comes from “Damph-Kraft-Wagon” which translates to “steam powered vehicle.” It carries this name because the first vehicle its Danish designer, J.S. Rasmussen built was a light steam car. Like many other manufacturers, DKW was also famous for motorcycles–in the 1930s they were the world’s largest motorcycle manufacturer. In 1931, DKW diversified into automobile manufacturing. In 1932, they became part of auto union, joining Audi, Horch, and Wanderer. In 1949, DKW was re-established in the Federal Republic of Germany before being taken over by Mercedes-Benz. Sold to Volkswagen in 1965, DKW became part of Audi, and ceased production in 1966. Dkw was known for being a reliable, well-built car. The two stroke engine is small, being under 1000cc, but provided adequate power to move this medium size car along very well. It is claimed the engine has only 7 moving parts!
Specifications:
Manufacturer: Auto Union GmbH
Country of Origin: Germany
Drivetrain Configuration: Front engine, front wheel drive
Engine: 980cc, 2 stroke, 50 hp
Transmission: 4 speed manual
Top Speed: 80-83 miles per hour
Years of Production: 1958-63
Number Produced: 171,008
Original Cost: 600 DM
A Note About the Display of Our Collection
Thank you for viewing our collection online! Please note that our collection contains over 330 cars and motorcycles though we only have room to display approximately 150 at a time. Therefore, the item you are viewing may not be on display when you visit the museum in person.
