1954 DKW F 89 vs. 1981 Mercury Grand Marquis
To start off, 1981 Mercury Grand Marquis is newer by 27 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 4,186 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Mercury Grand Marquis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mercury Grand Marquis (118 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1954 DKW F 89. (24 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mercury Grand Marquis should accelerate faster than 1954 DKW F 89. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mercury Grand Marquis weights approximately 820 kg more than 1954 DKW F 89. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Mercury Grand Marquis 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 1981 Mercury Grand Marquis. 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 | 1981 Mercury Grand Marquis | |
| Make | DKW | Mercury |
| Model | F 89 | Grand Marquis |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 684 cc | 4186 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2910 mm |
