1954 DKW F 89 vs. 1962 Porsche 356
To start off, 1962 Porsche 356 is newer by 8 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 1,582 cc (4 cylinders), 1962 Porsche 356 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Porsche 356 (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1954 DKW F 89. (24 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1962 Porsche 356 should accelerate faster than 1954 DKW F 89. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 DKW F 89 weights approximately 2 kg more than 1962 Porsche 356.
Because 1962 Porsche 356 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 1962 Porsche 356. 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 | 1962 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | DKW | Porsche |
| Model | F 89 | 356 |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 684 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 858 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2130 mm |
