1961 DKW Junior vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 51 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (295 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 261 more horse power than 1961 DKW Junior. (34 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1961 DKW Junior. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1390 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (385 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 314 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 DKW Junior. (71 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 DKW Junior.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 DKW Junior | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | DKW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Junior | S |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 794 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 295 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 385 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 710 kg | 2100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2180 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 90 L |
