1959 DKW Junior vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 44 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 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML (232 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 198 more horse power than 1959 DKW Junior. (34 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1959 DKW Junior. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1485 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1959 DKW Junior. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML (345 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 281 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 DKW Junior. (64 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 DKW Junior. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1959 DKW Junior has manual transmission. 1959 DKW Junior will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 DKW Junior | 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | DKW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Junior | ML |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 741 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 2185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2180 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 83 L |
