1966 DKW F 102 vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 20 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 5,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 1966 DKW F 102. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1966 DKW F 102. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 890 kg more than 1966 DKW F 102. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (422 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 319 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 DKW F 102. (103 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 DKW F 102. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1966 DKW F 102 has manual transmission. 1966 DKW F 102 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 DKW F 102 | 1986 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | DKW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | F 102 | S |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1175 cc | 5547 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 422 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2950 mm |
