1962 DKW Junior vs. 1971 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1971 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 DKW Junior. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 DKW Junior would be higher. At 6,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Pontiac Firebird (285 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 251 more horse power than 1962 DKW Junior. (34 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1962 DKW Junior. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 896 kg more than 1962 DKW Junior. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Pontiac Firebird 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 1971 Pontiac Firebird. 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, 1971 Pontiac Firebird (421 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 357 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 DKW Junior. (64 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1971 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 DKW Junior.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 DKW Junior | 1971 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | DKW | Pontiac |
| Model | Junior | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 739 cc | 6547 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 285 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 421 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68 mm | 104.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2180 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 76 L |
