1955 DKW F 89 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 57 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 DKW F 89. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 DKW F 89 would be higher. At 2,143 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (201 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 177 more horse power than 1955 DKW F 89. (24 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1955 DKW F 89. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 940 kg more than 1955 DKW F 89. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1955 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1955 DKW F 89 has manual transmission. 1955 DKW F 89 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 DKW F 89 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | DKW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | F 89 | CLS |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 684 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2875 mm |
