1981 Citroen Mehari vs. 1962 DKW Junior
To start off, 1981 Citroen Mehari is newer by 19 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 796 cc (3 cylinders), 1962 DKW Junior is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 DKW Junior (34 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1981 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1962 DKW Junior should accelerate faster than 1981 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 DKW Junior weights approximately 145 kg more than 1981 Citroen Mehari. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1962 DKW Junior (73 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Citroen Mehari. (39 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1962 DKW Junior will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Citroen Mehari.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Citroen Mehari | 1962 DKW Junior | |
| Make | Citroen | DKW |
| Model | Mehari | Junior |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 602 cc | 796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 73 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2180 mm |
