1962 DKW Junior vs. 1958 Ford Popular

To start off, 1962 DKW Junior is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Ford Popular. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Ford Popular would be higher. At 1,171 cc (4 cylinders), 1958 Ford Popular is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 DKW Junior (34 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1958 Ford Popular. (26 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1962 DKW Junior should accelerate faster than 1958 Ford Popular. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 Ford Popular weights approximately 35 kg more than 1962 DKW Junior.

Because 1958 Ford Popular 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 1958 Ford Popular. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1962 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, 1962 DKW Junior (73 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Ford Popular. (63 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1962 DKW Junior will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Ford Popular.

Compare all specifications:

1962 DKW Junior 1958 Ford Popular
Make DKW Ford
Model Junior Popular
Year Released 1962 1958
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 796 cc 1171 cc
Engine Cylinders 3 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 34 HP 26 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 73 Nm 63 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 2400 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Vehicle Weight 700 kg 735 kg
Vehicle Length 3990 mm 3880 mm
Vehicle Width 1590 mm 1440 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1630 mm
Wheelbase Size 2180 mm 2300 mm