Barkas 900 – specifications

The register lists 34 versions here with 18 to 28 kW, all with three-cylinder engines of 900 to 1,000 cm³, kerb weights of 950 to 1,690 kg, gross vehicle weights of 1,439 to 3,500 kg, lengths of 4,600 to 4,730 mm and widths of 1,570 to 1,930 mm.

The Barkas B1000 was for decades practically East Germany's only light van, used equally as a box van, estate, pick-up and ambulance by trades, retail, the fire brigade and emergency services. After German reunification production ended in 1991, and without a direct successor the Barkas remained a symbol of East German commercial-vehicle manufacturing.

When buying a used Barkas or Framo, key checks include frame and floor corrosion, the condition of the two-stroke engine including pistons and cylinder liners, and the sealing of the often simple bodywork. Brakes and wheel bearings should be checked especially thoroughly given the age of the vehicles. Spare parts are available through an active scene of Barkas clubs and East German classic-vehicle dealers; no new parts have been supplied by the manufacturer since the factory closed.