1976 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1963 DKW Junior
To start off, 1976 Chrysler 1609 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 DKW Junior. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 DKW Junior would be higher. At 1,918 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Chrysler 1609 (59 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1963 DKW Junior. (34 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 1963 DKW Junior. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 515 kg more than 1963 DKW Junior. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Chrysler 1609 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 1976 Chrysler 1609. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1963 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, 1976 Chrysler 1609 (126 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 DKW Junior. (71 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1976 Chrysler 1609 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 DKW Junior.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler 1609 | 1963 DKW Junior | |
| Make | Chrysler | DKW |
| Model | 1609 | Junior |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1918 cc | 796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 71 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 710 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2180 mm |
