1942 DKW Reichklasse F8 vs. 1955 Mercedes-Benz 220
To start off, 1955 Mercedes-Benz 220 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 2,195 cc (6 cylinders), 1955 Mercedes-Benz 220 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Mercedes-Benz 220 (83 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. (18 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1955 Mercedes-Benz 220 should accelerate faster than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Mercedes-Benz 220 weights approximately 440 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 Mercedes-Benz 220 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 Mercedes-Benz 220. 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 Mercedes-Benz 220 (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. (49 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1955 Mercedes-Benz 220 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 Mercedes-Benz 220 | |
| Make | DKW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Reichklasse F8 | 220 |
| Year Released | 1942 | 1955 |
| Engine Size | 584 cc | 2195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 835 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2830 mm |
