1976 Chrysler Centura vs. 1962 DKW Junior
To start off, 1976 Chrysler Centura is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 DKW Junior. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 DKW Junior would be higher. At 1,981 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Chrysler Centura is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Chrysler Centura (118 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1962 DKW Junior. (34 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Chrysler Centura should accelerate faster than 1962 DKW Junior. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Chrysler Centura weights approximately 415 kg more than 1962 DKW Junior. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Chrysler Centura 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 Centura. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1962 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 Centura (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 DKW Junior. (64 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1976 Chrysler Centura will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 DKW Junior.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler Centura | 1962 DKW Junior | |
| Make | Chrysler | DKW |
| Model | Centura | Junior |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1981 cc | 739 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 64 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2180 mm |
