1942 DKW Reichklasse F8 vs. 1962 Steyr 500D
To start off, 1962 Steyr 500D is newer by 20 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 584 cc (2 cylinders), 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Steyr 500D (19 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. (18 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1962 Steyr 500D 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 355 kg more than 1962 Steyr 500D.
Because 1962 Steyr 500D 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 1962 Steyr 500D. 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, 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8 (49 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Steyr 500D. (32 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Steyr 500D.
Compare all specifications:
| 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8 | 1962 Steyr 500D | |
| Make | DKW | Steyr |
| Model | Reichklasse F8 | 500D |
| Year Released | 1942 | 1962 |
| Engine Size | 584 cc | 489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 19 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 32 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 835 kg | 480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 2970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1330 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 1850 mm |
