1942 DKW Reichklasse F8 vs. 1978 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1978 Lancia Beta is newer by 36 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 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Lancia Beta (81 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. (18 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Lancia Beta weights approximately 165 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1978 Lancia Beta (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. (49 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1978 Lancia Beta 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 | 1978 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | DKW | Lancia |
| Model | Reichklasse F8 | Beta |
| Year Released | 1942 | 1978 |
| Engine Size | 584 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 70.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 835 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2360 mm |
