1979 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1960 DKW Junior
To start off, 1979 Chrysler 1609 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 DKW Junior. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 DKW Junior would be higher. At 1,811 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Chrysler 1609 (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1960 DKW Junior. (34 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 1960 DKW Junior. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 400 kg more than 1960 DKW Junior. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Chrysler 1609. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1960 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, 1979 Chrysler 1609 (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 DKW Junior. (64 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1979 Chrysler 1609 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 DKW Junior.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Chrysler 1609 | 1960 DKW Junior | |
| Make | Chrysler | DKW |
| Model | 1609 | Junior |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1960 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1811 cc | 741 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 64 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2180 mm |
