1963 DKW F 11 vs. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4
To start off, 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 DKW F 11. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 DKW F 11 would be higher. At 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 (108 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1963 DKW F 11. (34 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 should accelerate faster than 1963 DKW F 11. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 weights approximately 620 kg more than 1963 DKW F 11. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 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 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1963 DKW F 11, 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, 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 (187 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 DKW F 11. (71 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 DKW F 11.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 DKW F 11 | 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 | |
| Make | DKW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | F 11 | 230.4 |
| Year Released | 1963 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 794 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68 mm | 93.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 730 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 65 L |
