1959 DKW Junior vs. 1974 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 1974 Mazda RX-3 is newer by 15 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 1,962 cc, 1974 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mazda RX-3 (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1959 DKW Junior. (34 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 1959 DKW Junior. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mazda RX-3 weights approximately 150 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 1974 Mazda RX-3 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 1974 Mazda RX-3. 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, 1974 Mazda RX-3 (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 DKW Junior. (64 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1974 Mazda RX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 DKW Junior.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 DKW Junior | 1974 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | DKW | Mazda |
| Model | Junior | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 741 cc | 1962 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2180 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 65 L |
