What is the difference between Audi DTA and DKW?
3 Answers
The differences between Audi DTA and DKW are as follows: 1. The maximum torque speed is different: the maximum torque speed (Nm/rpm) of the DKW engine is 350/1600-4500. The maximum torque speed (Nm/rpm) of the DTA engine is 320/1450-4200. 2. The maximum power is different: the new A6 2.0T high-power version DKW engine has a maximum power (kW/rpm) of 165/5000-6000, while the Audi A6L EA888 engine has a maximum power (kW/rpm) of 140/4200-6000.
I've driven quite a few Audi models and have a decent understanding of their engine codes. Both DTA and DKW are engine designations Audi has used in recent years. Let's start with DTA. This refers to the 3.0T V6 gasoline engine used in mid-to-high-end models like the S4 and A6, starting from 340 horsepower. After switching from supercharging to turbocharging, it became even more efficient. It runs exceptionally smooth - even when revving up to 5000 RPM, it doesn't feel strained. DKW, on the other hand, is a 2.0T four-cylinder engine commonly found in mainstream models like the A4 and Q5, with the 190 horsepower version being the most prevalent. The most noticeable difference is that DTA offers much stronger acceleration, especially when overtaking on highways where you can clearly feel its superior power reserve. In terms of fuel consumption, DKW is indeed more economical, but the gap narrowed after DTA was paired with a 48V mild hybrid system. In my opinion, engine selection depends on usage - DKW suffices for daily commuting, while DTA is the choice for power enthusiasts, though you'll need to budget about 70,000-80,000 yuan more.
As a frequent visitor to repair shops as an Audi owner, I'm all too familiar with these two engines. The DTA is a longitudinally mounted 3.0T platform where the V6 structure is clearly visible in the engine bay, and the pipe layout during repairs is more spacious compared to the transverse DKW. The DKW is a four-cylinder engine where even changing spark plugs is more cumbersome than with the DTA. Here's a detail many don't know: the DTA uses a water-cooled intercooler, while the DKW is air-cooled, resulting in significantly poorer cooling efficiency during summer traffic jams. The oil capacity differs too—the DTA requires 7 liters per change, whereas the DKW only needs 5.5 liters. In terms of maintenance costs, replacing spark plugs on the DTA requires removing the intake manifold, making labor costs about 30% higher than the DKW. If I had to recommend, for frequent long-distance driving, the DTA is more worry-free, while for city commuting, the DKW's cheaper maintenance is sufficient.
