1962 DKW Junior vs. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 44 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1962 DKW Junior. (34 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1962 DKW Junior. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 429 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 2006 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 2006 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, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (189 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 DKW Junior. (73 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | DKW | Mazda |
| Model | Junior | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 796 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 73 Nm | 189 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 83.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1129 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2180 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 50 L |
