1942 DKW Reichklasse F8 vs. 1955 Ford Zephyr
To start off, 1955 Ford Zephyr is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8 would be higher. At 2,260 cc (6 cylinders), 1955 Ford Zephyr is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Ford Zephyr (57 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. (18 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1955 Ford Zephyr should accelerate faster than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Ford Zephyr weights approximately 310 kg more than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Ford Zephyr 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 1955 Ford Zephyr. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1942 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, 1955 Ford Zephyr (151 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. (49 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1955 Ford Zephyr will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8 | 1955 Ford Zephyr | |
| Make | DKW | Ford |
| Model | Reichklasse F8 | Zephyr |
| Year Released | 1942 | 1955 |
| Engine Size | 584 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 79.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 835 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
