1951 DKW F 89 vs. 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 DKW F 89. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 DKW F 89 would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 (238 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 214 more horse power than 1951 DKW F 89. (24 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1951 DKW F 89. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 521 kg more than 1951 DKW F 89. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1951 DKW F 89, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control.
Compare all specifications:
| 1951 DKW F 89 | 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | DKW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | F 89 | 300 |
| Year Released | 1951 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 684 cc | 2995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 864 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2410 mm |
