1962 DKW Junior vs. 1976 Ford Cortina
To start off, 1976 Ford Cortina is newer by 14 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 1,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Ford Cortina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Ford Cortina (54 HP) has 20 more horse power than 1962 DKW Junior. (34 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Ford Cortina should accelerate faster than 1962 DKW Junior. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Ford Cortina weights approximately 300 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 1976 Ford Cortina 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 1976 Ford Cortina. 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, 1976 Ford Cortina (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 DKW Junior. (64 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1976 Ford Cortina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 DKW Junior.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 DKW Junior | 1976 Ford Cortina | |
| Make | DKW | Ford |
| Model | Junior | Cortina |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 739 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 54 HP |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 91 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68 mm | 79.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2180 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 55 L |
