1942 DKW Reichklasse F8 vs. 1997 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1997 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 55 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Thunderbird (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. (18 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 785 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 1997 Ford Thunderbird 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 1997 Ford Thunderbird. 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, 1997 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 242 more torque (in Nm) than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. (49 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Thunderbird 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 | 1997 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | DKW | Ford |
| Model | Reichklasse F8 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1942 | 1997 |
| Engine Size | 584 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 96.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 835 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2880 mm |
