1941 DKW Reichklasse F8 vs. 1973 Fiat 126
To start off, 1973 Fiat 126 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1941 DKW Reichklasse F8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1941 DKW Reichklasse F8 would be higher. At 594 cc (2 cylinders), 1973 Fiat 126 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Fiat 126 (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1941 DKW Reichklasse F8. (18 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Fiat 126 should accelerate faster than 1941 DKW Reichklasse F8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1941 DKW Reichklasse F8 weights approximately 255 kg more than 1973 Fiat 126.
Because 1973 Fiat 126 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 1973 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1941 DKW Reichklasse F8, 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, 1941 DKW Reichklasse F8 (49 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1941 DKW Reichklasse F8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1941 DKW Reichklasse F8 | 1973 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | DKW | Fiat |
| Model | Reichklasse F8 | 126 |
| Year Released | 1941 | 1973 |
| Engine Size | 584 cc | 594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 23 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 39 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 835 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1380 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 1850 mm |
