1966 DKW F 102 vs. 1973 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 1973 Volkswagen 1600 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 DKW F 102. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 DKW F 102 would be higher. At 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Volkswagen 1600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 DKW F 102 (59 HP) has 6 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1966 DKW F 102 should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Volkswagen 1600 weights approximately 68 kg more than 1966 DKW F 102.
Because 1973 Volkswagen 1600 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 1973 Volkswagen 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1966 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, 1973 Volkswagen 1600 (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 DKW F 102. (103 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1973 Volkswagen 1600 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 DKW F 102.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 DKW F 102 | 1973 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | DKW | Volkswagen |
| Model | F 102 | 1600 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1175 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.6 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 69 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.3:1 | 7.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 978 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 40 L |
