1959 DKW Junior vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 50 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 1,308 cc, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 198 more horse power than 1959 DKW Junior. (34 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1959 DKW Junior. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 425 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 2009 Mazda RX-8 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1959 DKW Junior, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 DKW Junior. (64 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 DKW Junior.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 DKW Junior | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | DKW | Mazda |
| Model | Junior | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 741 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2180 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 64 L |
