DKW Vemag: The Story of Brazilian Success

When you think about Brazil's automotive history, it's impossible not to remember the DKW-Vemag, a brand that marked an era and won many hearts. With models like the Vemaguet, Belcar, Candango It is Fissore, DKW stood out for its innovation and simplicity, becoming one of the greatest icons of Brazilian motorsports. But what made these cars so special?

Let's embark on this journey through time to discover the legacy of DKW-Vemag, from its engine two times, pioneering front-wheel drive, to its contributions to the national industry.

Origins and First Steps in Brazil

The story begins in 1957, when the VEMAG (Agricultural Vehicles and Machinery Inc.) brought to Brazil the brand's first car, based on the German model DKW F91. However, DKW's trajectory dates back to 1917, in Germany, with the production of steam cars. Initially, the acronym DKW meant “Dampf-Kraft-Wagen” (Steam Power Car).

Over time, engines gasoline gained space, and the acronym began to be translated as “The Little Wonder” (The Little Wonder), in allusion to the impressive performance of the engines two times.

In Brazil, the first model produced was the Vemaguet, which soon became the first national compact station wagon. The success was evident: only in 1957, were sold 1,166 units!

Innovative Technical Features

A mechanical simplicity of the DKW-Vemag models was one of the great attractions. The engine front, with cycle of two times, three cylinders in line, It is water cooling, brought a unique solution: only seven moving parts! This contrasted with conventional engines, which had more than 70 moving parts.

Other details caught attention:

• Power: 40 hp at 4,250 rpm (in the initial models).
• Displacement: 896 cm³.
• Streaming: Four-speed manual, front-wheel drive.
• Chassis: Longer members and “X” structure, providing greater rigidity.

Lubrication was done with a mixture of oil and gasoline, eliminating the need for valves in the engine. However, this required attention to adjustment, since each cylinder had its own coil It is platinum.

Models that left us with fond memories

1. Vemaguet

A Vemaguet was the station wagon that won over Brazilian families. With rear doors bi-partite (top and bottom opening), offered excellent interior space: up to 2.2 m² with the rear seats folded down.

2. Candango

In 1958, the Candango, a robust utility vehicle, inspired by the American Jeep. Its name paid homage to the workers who built Brasília. Initially, the Candango had traction Permanent 4×4, with reduced gear that could be activated on the move. In 1960, the version 4×2 was launched, prioritizing comfort for urban use.

3. Belcar

The sedan Belcar was a milestone in the history of DKW, being the first front-wheel drive sedan in Brazil. With a 981 cm³ It is 50 hp, reached up to 125 km/h and went from 0 to 100 km/h in 25.5 seconds. Its consumption was between 7.5 and 8.5 km/l on the road.

4. Fissore

Released on 1964, O Fissore was a luxury sedan, developed in Italy and assembled in Brazil. It brought modern features such as the Lubrimat, which automated the mixing of oil into gasoline, reducing the need for driver intervention.

Competition and Legacy

At the time, the Belcar competed with models like the Volkswagen Beetle and Willys Renault Dauphine. Despite strong competition, DKWs stood out for their innovative design and robustness.

The engine two times It also gained other applications, such as in sports DKW Malzoni and in the record car Caracara, which reached the mark of 212 km/h in 1966.

Decline and End of an Era

The decline of DKW-Vemag started in 1967, when the factory was absorbed by Volkswagen. The new management decided to end production of the brand's models, prioritizing the manufacture of Volkswagen Beetle and other models in the VW line. Thus, the last DKWs rolled off the assembly lines in the same year.

Historical Value and Collectibles

Today, the vehicles of the DKW-Vemag are true relics. One Belcar or a Vemaguet restored can cost between R$ 50 thousand and R$ 100 thousand, depending on the state of conservation. Rare models, such as the Fissore, they even exceed R$ 150 thousand in the collectors' market.

Conclusion: Two Times, Many Stories

By 2025, the legacy of DKW-Vemag remains alive. These cars were not just means of transportation; they were symbols of an era when mechanical simplicity and innovation went hand in hand. Each DKW model told a story, from the arrival of the Vemaguet to the streets until the sporting success of Caracara.

If you are passionate about classic cars, considering a DKW for your collection is more than just a choice; it is a tribute to a brand that helped build Brazilian automotive history. After all, who can resist the charm of a classic car? Vemaguet or the characteristic roar of the engine two times?

Now it's your turn to revisit the past and celebrate this heritage that lives on in every car that crosses the roads or classic vehicle exhibitions. Long live DKW-Vemag!