1962 DKW Junior vs. 2009 Dodge Nitro
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 47 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1962 DKW Junior. (34 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1962 DKW Junior. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 991 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 2009 Dodge Nitro 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 2009 Dodge Nitro. 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, 2009 Dodge Nitro (314 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 241 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 DKW Junior. (73 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 DKW Junior.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 DKW Junior | 2009 Dodge Nitro | |
| Make | DKW | Dodge |
| Model | Junior | Nitro |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 796 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 73 Nm | 314 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.5 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 90 mm |
| Top Speed | 122 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1691 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1860 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2180 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 74 L |
