1954 DKW F 89 vs. 1955 Fiat 600
To start off, 1955 Fiat 600 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 DKW F 89. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 DKW F 89 would be higher. At 684 cc (2 cylinders), 1954 DKW F 89 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1954 DKW F 89 (24 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1955 Fiat 600. (19 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1954 DKW F 89 should accelerate faster than 1955 Fiat 600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 DKW F 89 weights approximately 285 kg more than 1955 Fiat 600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Fiat 600 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 1955 Fiat 600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1954 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:
| 1954 DKW F 89 | 1955 Fiat 600 | |
| Make | DKW | Fiat |
| Model | F 89 | 600 |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 684 cc | 633 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 19 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 575 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1390 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2010 mm |
