1961 DKW Junior vs. 2004 Ford Mustang

To start off, 2004 Ford Mustang is newer by 43 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 4,599 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Mustang (300 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 266 more horse power than 1961 DKW Junior. (34 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1961 DKW Junior. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Mustang weights approximately 855 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 2004 Ford Mustang 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 2004 Ford Mustang. 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, 2004 Ford Mustang (434 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 363 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 DKW Junior. (71 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 DKW Junior.

Compare all specifications:

1961 DKW Junior 2004 Ford Mustang
Make DKW Ford
Model Junior Mustang
Year Released 1961 2004
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 794 cc 4599 cc
Engine Cylinders 3 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 3 valves
Horse Power 34 HP 300 HP
Engine RPM 4300 RPM 5750 RPM
Torque 71 Nm 434 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 4500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 68 mm 90.2 mm
Engine Stroke Size 68 mm 90 mm
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 710 kg 1565 kg
Vehicle Length 3970 mm 4780 mm
Vehicle Width 1570 mm 1880 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2180 mm 2760 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 31 L 60 L