1961 DKW Junior vs. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 DKW Junior. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 DKW Junior would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1961 DKW Junior. (34 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1961 DKW Junior. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 370 kg more than 1961 DKW Junior. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 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, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (244 Nm) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 DKW Junior. (71 Nm). This means 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 DKW Junior.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 DKW Junior | 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | DKW | Mazda |
| Model | Junior | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 794 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 68 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 710 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2180 mm | 2270 mm |
