1959 DKW Junior vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 38 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 1,687 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (88 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1959 DKW Junior. (34 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1959 DKW Junior. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 395 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 DKW Junior. (64 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 DKW Junior.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 DKW Junior | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | DKW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Junior | A |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 741 cc | 1687 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2180 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 54 L |
