1965 DKW F 102 vs. 1962 Lotus Elite
To start off, 1965 DKW F 102 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,215 cc (4 cylinders), 1962 Lotus Elite is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Lotus Elite (83 HP) has 24 more horse power than 1965 DKW F 102. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1962 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 1965 DKW F 102. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1965 DKW F 102 weights approximately 250 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Because 1962 Lotus Elite 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 1962 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1965 DKW F 102, 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, 1965 DKW F 102 (103 Nm @ 2250 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1965 DKW F 102 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 DKW F 102 | 1962 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | DKW | Lotus |
| Model | F 102 | Elite |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1175 cc | 1215 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 83 HP |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.5 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 66.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1190 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 29 L |
