1942 DKW Reichklasse F8 vs. 1964 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1964 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 22 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 2,553 cc (6 cylinders), 1964 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1964 Reliant Scimitar (120 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. (18 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1964 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1964 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 168 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 1964 Reliant Scimitar 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 1964 Reliant Scimitar. 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, 1964 Reliant Scimitar (190 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. (49 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1964 Reliant Scimitar 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 | 1964 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | DKW | Reliant |
| Model | Reichklasse F8 | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1942 | 1964 |
| Engine Size | 584 cc | 2553 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 835 kg | 1003 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2340 mm |
