1952 DKW F 91 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 DKW F 91. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 DKW F 91 would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 281 more horse power than 1952 DKW F 91. (34 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1952 DKW F 91. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 879 kg more than 1952 DKW F 91. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1952 DKW F 91, 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. Let's talk about torque, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (468 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 405 more torque (in Nm) than 1952 DKW F 91. (63 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1952 DKW F 91.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 DKW F 91 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | DKW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | F 91 | SL |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 894 cc | 4971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 315 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 63 Nm | 468 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 1769 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2520 mm |
