1961 DKW Junior vs. 2005 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2005 Smart ForTwo is newer by 44 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 794 cc (3 cylinders), 1961 DKW Junior is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Smart ForTwo (74 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1961 DKW Junior. (34 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Smart ForTwo should accelerate faster than 1961 DKW Junior.
Because 2005 Smart ForTwo 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 ForTwo. 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, 2005 Smart ForTwo (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 DKW Junior. (71 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Smart ForTwo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 DKW Junior.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 DKW Junior | 2005 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | DKW | Smart |
| Model | Junior | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 794 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 | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 113 km/hour | 145 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 2510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1520 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2180 mm | 1820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 33 L |
