1962 DKW Junior vs. 1981 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 1981 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 19 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), 1981 Vauxhall Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Vauxhall Astra (59 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1962 DKW Junior. (34 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Vauxhall Astra should accelerate faster than 1962 DKW Junior. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Vauxhall Astra weights approximately 140 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1981 Vauxhall Astra (88 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 DKW Junior. (64 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1981 Vauxhall Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 DKW Junior.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 DKW Junior | 1981 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | DKW | Vauxhall |
| Model | Junior | Astra |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1981 |
| 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 | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2180 mm | 2520 mm |
