1959 DKW Junior vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra 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 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1959 DKW Junior. (34 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1959 DKW Junior. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 598 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, 2003 Opel Astra (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 DKW Junior. (64 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 DKW Junior. 2003 Opel Astra 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 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 DKW Junior | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | DKW | Opel |
| Model | Junior | Astra |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 741 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2180 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 52 L |
