1942 DKW Reichklasse F8 vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (168 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. (18 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 525 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 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 191 more torque (in Nm) than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. (49 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 | 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | DKW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Reichklasse F8 | SL |
Year Released | 1942 | 1971 |
Engine Size | 584 cc | 2778 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 18 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 49 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 835 kg | 1360 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |