Czechoslovakia vs Germany — 1946 vs 1959
| Minor II | Junior De Luxe | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 20 hp | 34 hp |
| Torque | 29 lb-ft | 46 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 615 cc | 741 cc |
| 0-60 mph | — | 26.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 56 mph | 71 mph |
| ¼ Mile | — | 25.5 sec |
| Weight | 1,499 lbs | 1,720 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,350 mm | 2,380 mm |
| Length | 3,750 mm | 4,100 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 118,986 |
| Value (Excellent) | $25,000 | $18,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 6/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1946 Aero Minor II brings lighter weight to the table, and the 1959 DKW Junior De Luxe answers with more power, higher top speed. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
The rivalry between Czechoslovakia and Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1946 Aero Minor II versus 1959 DKW Junior De Luxe is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1946 Aero Minor II producing 20 hp and the 1959 DKW Junior De Luxe delivering 34 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Aero Minor uses a Inline-2 OHV displacing 615 cc, while the DKW Junior relies on a Inline-3 2-stroke with 741 cc. The 1959 DKW Junior De Luxe claims a higher top speed at 71 mph compared to 56 mph. The Aero Minor carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 221 lbs lighter. Each of these machines offers a unique window into the era that produced it, making both worthy of consideration by collectors and drivers alike.