2009 BMW M3 vs. 1961 DKW Junior

To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 DKW Junior. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 DKW Junior would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 380 more horse power than 1961 DKW Junior. (34 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1961 DKW Junior. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 815 kg more than 1961 DKW Junior. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 BMW M3 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 2009 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 329 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 DKW Junior. (71 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 DKW Junior.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW M3 1961 DKW Junior
Make BMW DKW
Model M3 Junior
Year Released 2009 1961
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3999 cc 794 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 3 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 414 HP 34 HP
Engine RPM 8300 RPM 4300 RPM
Torque 400 Nm 71 Nm
Torque RPM 3900 RPM 2500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Top Speed 245 km/hour 113 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1525 kg 710 kg
Vehicle Length 4620 mm 3970 mm
Vehicle Width 1420 mm 1570 mm
Vehicle Height 1760 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2180 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 31 L