1962 DKW Junior vs. 1974 Opel Manta
To start off, 1974 Opel Manta is newer by 12 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 1,196 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Opel Manta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Opel Manta (59 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1962 DKW Junior. (34 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Opel Manta should accelerate faster than 1962 DKW Junior. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Opel Manta weights approximately 230 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 1974 Opel Manta 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 1974 Opel Manta. 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, 1974 Opel Manta (90 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 DKW Junior. (64 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1974 Opel Manta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 DKW Junior.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 DKW Junior | 1974 Opel Manta | |
| Make | DKW | Opel |
| Model | Junior | Manta |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 739 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2180 mm | 2440 mm |
