1942 DKW Reichklasse F8 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. (18 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 435 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 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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 Mercedes-Benz SLK (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. (49 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | DKW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Reichklasse F8 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1942 | 1997 |
| Engine Size | 584 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 835 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
