1974 Alfa Romeo Junior vs. 1961 DKW Junior
To start off, 1974 Alfa Romeo Junior is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 DKW Junior. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 DKW Junior would be higher. At 1,290 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Alfa Romeo Junior is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Alfa Romeo Junior (86 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1961 DKW Junior. (34 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Alfa Romeo Junior should accelerate faster than 1961 DKW Junior. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Alfa Romeo Junior weights approximately 260 kg more than 1961 DKW Junior. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Alfa Romeo Junior 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 1974 Alfa Romeo Junior. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 DKW Junior, 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, 1974 Alfa Romeo Junior (115 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 DKW Junior. (71 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1974 Alfa Romeo Junior will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 DKW Junior.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Alfa Romeo Junior | 1961 DKW Junior | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | DKW |
| Model | Junior | Junior |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1290 cc | 794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 71 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 710 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3910 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2180 mm |
