DKW 3=6 Monza
The DKW 3=6 Monza was a charming sports coupe variant of the DKW Sonderklasse, named after the Autodromo Nazionale Monza in Italy where DKW-powered cars achieved remarkable endurance racing success. The name '3=6' cleverly advertised that the three-cylinder two-stroke engine delivered the smoothness of a six-cylinder (due to its three power strokes per revolution). The Monza coupe body was designed and built by Dannenhauer & Stauss in Stuttgart, featuring a streamlined hardtop profile that significantly improved the car's aerodynamics. Despite its modest 40 horsepower, the lightweight Monza could cruise at 130 km/h thanks to its slippery shape. Front-wheel drive — a DKW hallmark since the 1930s — provided excellent traction and predictable handling. The two-stroke engine required mixing oil with the fuel, filling gas stations with the distinctive blue smoke that became a DKW trademark. DKW was part of the Auto Union group (which also included Audi, Horch, and Wanderer), and its Ingolstadt factory would later become the birthplace of the modern Audi brand. The Monza represents the sporting spirit of the DKW marque at its finest.
Two-stroke engines require proper fuel/oil mixture — running straight gasoline will destroy the engine. Check for body corrosion, especially lower panels. Parts are available through German classic car networks. The Monza coupe body parts are particularly scarce. Engine rebuilds require two-stroke specialist knowledge.
The Monza coupe body was built by the Dannenhauer & Stauss coachbuilder in Stuttgart. Production numbers were limited compared to the standard 3=6 sedan. DKW was a founding member of Auto Union.