1942 DKW Reichklasse F8 vs. 1973 Jaguar XJ

To start off, 1973 Jaguar XJ is newer by 31 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 5,344 cc (12 cylinders), 1973 Jaguar XJ is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Jaguar XJ (251 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 233 more horse power than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. (18 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Jaguar XJ should accelerate faster than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Jaguar XJ weights approximately 1000 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 1973 Jaguar XJ 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 1973 Jaguar XJ. 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, 1973 Jaguar XJ (409 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 360 more torque (in Nm) than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. (49 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1973 Jaguar XJ will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. 1973 Jaguar XJ has automatic transmission and 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8 has manual transmission. 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Jaguar XJ will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1942 DKW Reichklasse F8 1973 Jaguar XJ
Make DKW Jaguar
Model Reichklasse F8 XJ
Year Released 1942 1973
Engine Size 584 cc 5344 cc
Engine Cylinders 2 cylinders 12 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 18 HP 251 HP
Engine RPM 3500 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 49 Nm 409 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 74 mm 90 mm
Engine Stroke Size 68 mm 70 mm
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 835 kg 1835 kg
Vehicle Length 3900 mm 4850 mm
Vehicle Width 1490 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1510 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2770 mm