1960 DKW Junior vs. 2005 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2005 Smart Roadster is newer by 45 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, 2005 Smart Roadster (101 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1960 DKW Junior. (34 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Smart Roadster should accelerate faster than 1960 DKW Junior.
Because 2005 Smart Roadster 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 2005 Smart Roadster. 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, 2005 Smart Roadster (130 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 DKW Junior. (64 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Smart Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 DKW Junior.
Compare all specifications:
| 1960 DKW Junior | 2005 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | DKW | Smart |
| Model | Junior | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1960 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 741 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68 mm | 66.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 67 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2180 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 35 L |
