Ducati Elite vs DKW Stahlmodell SM (1965)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Ducati Elitestacks up against the DKW Stahlmodell SM. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecDucati EliteDKW Stahlmodell SM
Model year19651925
Price
Engine204 cc206 cc
Horsepower18 hp
Weight118 kg80 kg
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Transmission2-speed
Front brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)
Rear brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)
Tires2.75-18 / 3.25-18 26/21-4 / 26/21-4

Ducati Elite vs DKW Stahlmodell SM — which should you buy?

Picking between the Ducati Elite and the DKW Stahlmodell SM usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Ducati Elite brings 18 hp in a 118 kg package, while the DKW Stahlmodell SM counters with its own power figure at 80 kg.

Our spec tables above highlight the winning number on each line. For the full rider-focused reviews including real-world fuel economy, service costs and available colors, click into either bike: