1942 DKW Reichklasse F8 vs. 1956 Hudson Metropolitan
To start off, 1956 Hudson Metropolitan is newer by 14 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 1,489 cc (4 cylinders), 1956 Hudson Metropolitan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Hudson Metropolitan (47 HP @ 4100 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. (18 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1956 Hudson Metropolitan should accelerate faster than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8 weights approximately 15 kg more than 1956 Hudson Metropolitan.
Because 1956 Hudson Metropolitan 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 1956 Hudson Metropolitan. 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, 1956 Hudson Metropolitan (100 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. (49 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1956 Hudson Metropolitan 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 | 1956 Hudson Metropolitan | |
| Make | DKW | Hudson |
| Model | Reichklasse F8 | Metropolitan |
| Year Released | 1942 | 1956 |
| Engine Size | 584 cc | 1489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 835 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 3800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2170 mm |
