1965 DKW F 102 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 31 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 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (317 HP) has 258 more horse power than 1965 DKW F 102. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1965 DKW F 102. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1094 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (470 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 367 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 DKW F 102. (103 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 DKW F 102. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1965 DKW F 102 has manual transmission. 1965 DKW F 102 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 DKW F 102 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | DKW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | F 102 | S |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1175 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 317 HP |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 470 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.5 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 2004 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 3150 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 70 L |
