1959 DKW Junior vs. 1989 Plymouth Laser
To start off, 1989 Plymouth Laser is newer by 30 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Plymouth Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Plymouth Laser (133 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1959 DKW Junior. (34 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Plymouth Laser should accelerate faster than 1959 DKW Junior. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Plymouth Laser weights approximately 530 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1989 Plymouth Laser (169 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 DKW Junior. (64 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1989 Plymouth Laser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 DKW Junior.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 DKW Junior | 1989 Plymouth Laser | |
| Make | DKW | Plymouth |
| Model | Junior | Laser |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 741 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2180 mm | 2480 mm |
