Monday, 10 April 2017

1934 DKW F4 Meisterklasse Review - Motor und Sport Vol 31





Translation:
"Although the type designation has remained the same, the DKW front, "Meisterklasse" model, shown for the first time at the 1934 motor show, differs significantly from its predecessor from 1933, not only in terms of the external design, but also with regard to its driving characteristics. With the great experience that Auto-Union's Zschopauer engine works have in the construction of small cars, it is actually self-evident that the essential changes are synonymous with improvements in the qualities of this car.

The front wheel drive unit has of course remained the same, using the more powerful 700cc engine that develops 20 brake horsepower. The construction of the front wheel drive as well as the steering and braking system have not undergone changes either. On the other hand, the chassis has been redesigned for this type in that both the track width and the wheelbase have been increased, namely the track width for the rear wheels. These larger dimensions naturally have a favorable effect on the distribution of space in the car, but also allow a trunk (accessible from the inside), which is otherwise rarely found in vehicles of this size class.

The increase in the track width and the wheelbase, in conjunction with an improvement in the rear suspension and the choice of oversized tires, has also resulted in even better road holding and, above all, more pleasant suspension properties, which will be discussed later. As a further refinement, the mounting of the drive unit on rubber blocks should be mentioned.

The exterior of the car has also fundamentally changed. Based on the streamlined shape, a convertible limousine was developed which, with its sloping windscreen and curved rear end, gives the car the impression of great length and sleekness. Mudguards with side flaps pulled down low and the chromed beading strip drawn downwards at the rear give the vehicle the stamp of the most modern direction in body construction.

The interior of the car is very tasteful, almost finished with a luxury bordering on excess. The new instrument panel has a speedometer, clock, ammeter and fuel gauge with large and tastefully designed dials. The shift stick has an ebonite handle and the guide of the shift rod has been improved. In addition to the instrument panel, very large glove boxes are provided on both sides. The padding and the rest of the equipment of the car are based on the quality and taste selection that is usual for much more expensive cars.

The driving characteristics

The enlargement of the chassis and the more luxurious equipment naturally result in an increase in the weight. This gave rise to fears of reduced performance, which in reality is not the case. On the contrary, the maximum speed has been increased somewhat, and the good acceleration ability of the previous "Meisterklasse" type has been retained. The improved driving characteristics and the more comfortable suspension make any consideration of the type and condition of the road superfluous. Due to the extended wheelbase, the better weight distribution and the use of balloon tires, the car no longer tends to pitch with vibrations in any way. It goes over all bumps with extremely soft springing and conveys a driving comfort that has not been given in a decidedly small car up to now. Driving comfort is increased by the rubber mounting of the engine block, which keeps disturbing vibrations away from the chassis body and thus from the occupants. Shifting the freewheel using a small lever on the steering column is more precise, and the gearshift has been improved.

Finally, it should be mentioned that the braking effect has been improved by using the over-balloon tires with their larger ground contact.

The 1934 version of the DKW-Front, "Meisterklasse" type, presents itself as a small car that has not only been developed with great taste, but also has excellent driving characteristics, which is able to satisfy decidedly higher demands than are normally placed on a vehicle of this class be asked."




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