1955 DKW F 91 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 57 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 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 480 more horse power than 1955 DKW F 91. (38 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1955 DKW F 91. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1069 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (630 Nm) has 551 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 DKW F 91. (79 Nm). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 DKW F 91. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1955 DKW F 91 has manual transmission. 1955 DKW F 91 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 DKW F 91 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | DKW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | F 91 | SL |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 895 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4592 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2560 mm |
