1962 DKW Junior vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 37 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 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1962 DKW Junior. (34 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1962 DKW Junior. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 325 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 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 DKW Junior. (73 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 DKW Junior.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 DKW Junior | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | DKW | Mazda |
| Model | Junior | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 796 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 73 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 85 mm |
| Top Speed | 122 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2180 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 50 L |
