1958 DKW 600 vs. 1961 Studebaker Silver Hawk
To start off, 1961 Studebaker Silver Hawk is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 DKW 600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 DKW 600 would be higher. At 3,050 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Studebaker Silver Hawk is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Studebaker Silver Hawk (100 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1958 DKW 600. (30 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 Studebaker Silver Hawk should accelerate faster than 1958 DKW 600.
Because 1961 Studebaker Silver Hawk 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 1961 Studebaker Silver Hawk. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1958 DKW 600, 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, 1961 Studebaker Silver Hawk (206 Nm) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 DKW 600. (57 Nm). This means 1961 Studebaker Silver Hawk will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 DKW 600. 1961 Studebaker Silver Hawk has automatic transmission and 1958 DKW 600 has manual transmission. 1958 DKW 600 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1961 Studebaker Silver Hawk will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 DKW 600 | 1961 Studebaker Silver Hawk | |
| Make | DKW | Studebaker |
| Model | 600 | Silver Hawk |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 671 cc | 3050 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 30 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 57 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 111 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.3:1 | 7.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
