1942 DKW Reichklasse F8 vs. 1977 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 1977 Triumph Spitfire is newer by 35 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 1,492 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Triumph Spitfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Triumph Spitfire (56 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. (18 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Triumph Spitfire 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 20 kg more than 1977 Triumph Spitfire.
Because 1977 Triumph Spitfire 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 1977 Triumph Spitfire. 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, 1977 Triumph Spitfire (100 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. (49 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1977 Triumph Spitfire 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 | 1977 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | DKW | Triumph |
| Model | Reichklasse F8 | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 1942 | 1977 |
| Engine Size | 584 cc | 1492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 835 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2110 mm |
