1965 DKW F 102 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 DKW F 102. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 DKW F 102 would be higher. At 2,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 (134 HP) has 75 more horse power than 1965 DKW F 102. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 1965 DKW F 102. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 450 kg more than 1965 DKW F 102. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 DKW F 102. (103 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 DKW F 102.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 DKW F 102 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | DKW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | F 102 | 230 |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1175 cc | 2298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.5 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 65 L |
