1955 DKW F 91 vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 DKW F 91. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 DKW F 91 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 (174 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1955 DKW F 91. (38 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1955 DKW F 91. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 690 kg more than 1955 DKW F 91. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1955 DKW F 91, 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, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 (233 Nm) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 DKW F 91. (79 Nm). This means 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 DKW F 91.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 DKW F 91 | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | DKW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | F 91 | 280 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 895 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.5 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2830 mm |
