1959 DKW Junior vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 53 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 268 more horse power than 1959 DKW Junior. (34 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1959 DKW Junior.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 306 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 DKW Junior. (64 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 DKW Junior. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 DKW Junior | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | DKW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Junior | S |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 741 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 5096 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2180 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 90 L |
