1954 DKW Coupe vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220
To start off, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 DKW Coupe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 DKW Coupe would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 (58 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1954 DKW Coupe. (34 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 should accelerate faster than 1954 DKW Coupe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 weights approximately 496 kg more than 1954 DKW Coupe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1954 DKW Coupe, 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 (126 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 DKW Coupe. (69 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 DKW Coupe.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 DKW Coupe | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 | |
| Make | DKW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Coupe | 220 |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 903 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 58 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71.1 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.5:1 | 21.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 879 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2760 mm |
