1959 DKW Junior vs. 1968 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 1968 Sunbeam Rapier is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 DKW Junior. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 DKW Junior would be higher. At 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Sunbeam Rapier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Sunbeam Rapier (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1959 DKW Junior. (34 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Sunbeam Rapier should accelerate faster than 1959 DKW Junior. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Sunbeam Rapier weights approximately 330 kg more than 1959 DKW Junior. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Sunbeam Rapier 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 1968 Sunbeam Rapier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1959 DKW Junior, 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, 1968 Sunbeam Rapier (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 DKW Junior. (64 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1968 Sunbeam Rapier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 DKW Junior.
Compare all specifications:
1959 DKW Junior | 1968 Sunbeam Rapier | |
Make | DKW | Sunbeam |
Model | Junior | Rapier |
Year Released | 1959 | 1968 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 741 cc | 1725 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 34 HP | 79 HP |
Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 64 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 68 mm | 81.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 82.7 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1030 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2180 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 68 L |