1960 DKW Junior vs. 1974 Fiat 126
To start off, 1974 Fiat 126 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 DKW Junior. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 DKW Junior would be higher. At 741 cc (3 cylinders), 1960 DKW Junior is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1960 DKW Junior (34 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1960 DKW Junior should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1960 DKW Junior weights approximately 120 kg more than 1974 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Fiat 126 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 1974 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1960 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, 1960 DKW Junior (64 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1960 DKW Junior will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1960 DKW Junior | 1974 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | DKW | Fiat |
| Model | Junior | 126 |
| Year Released | 1960 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 741 cc | 593 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 23 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 39 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1380 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2180 mm | 1850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 20 L |
