1962 DKW Junior vs. 1973 Fiat 132
To start off, 1973 Fiat 132 is newer by 11 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 1,754 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Fiat 132 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Fiat 132 (111 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1962 DKW Junior. (34 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Fiat 132 should accelerate faster than 1962 DKW Junior. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Fiat 132 weights approximately 395 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 1973 Fiat 132 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 1973 Fiat 132. 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, 1973 Fiat 132 (147 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 DKW Junior. (64 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1973 Fiat 132 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 DKW Junior.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 DKW Junior | 1973 Fiat 132 | |
| Make | DKW | Fiat |
| Model | Junior | 132 |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 739 cc | 1754 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 79.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2180 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 55 L |
