1992 BMW 540 vs. 1966 DKW F 102
To start off, 1992 BMW 540 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 DKW F 102. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 DKW F 102 would be higher. At 3,980 cc (8 cylinders), 1992 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 223 more horse power than 1966 DKW F 102. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1966 DKW F 102. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 BMW 540 weights approximately 740 kg more than 1966 DKW F 102. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 BMW 540 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 1992 BMW 540. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1966 DKW F 102, 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, 1992 BMW 540 (400 Nm @ 5100 RPM) has 297 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 DKW F 102. (103 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1992 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 DKW F 102.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW 540 | 1966 DKW F 102 | |
| Make | BMW | DKW |
| Model | 540 | F 102 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3980 cc | 1175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 85.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 68 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 31 L |
