1942 DKW Reichklasse F8 vs. 1971 Fiat 500
To start off, 1971 Fiat 500 is newer by 29 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, both vehicles can yield 18 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8 weights approximately 325 kg more than 1971 Fiat 500.
Because 1971 Fiat 500 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 1971 Fiat 500. 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 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 500. (27 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8 | 1971 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | DKW | Fiat |
| Model | Reichklasse F8 | 500 |
| Year Released | 1942 | 1971 |
| Engine Size | 584 cc | 497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 18 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 27 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 67.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 835 kg | 510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 2980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1330 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 1850 mm |
