1959 DKW Junior vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 49 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1959 DKW Junior. (34 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1959 DKW Junior. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 610 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, 2008 Opel Astra (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 DKW Junior. (64 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 DKW Junior. 2008 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. 2008 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 DKW Junior | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | DKW | Opel |
| Model | Junior | Astra |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 741 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 3510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2180 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 52 L |
