2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1959 DKW Junior
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 DKW Junior. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 DKW Junior would be higher. At 2,425 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 181 more horse power than 1959 DKW Junior. (34 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1959 DKW Junior. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 802 kg more than 1959 DKW Junior. 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, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (332 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 268 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 DKW Junior. (64 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 DKW Junior.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1959 DKW Junior | |
| Make | Chrysler | DKW |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Junior |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 741 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 64 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 68 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 68 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1502 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2180 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 31 L |
