1942 DKW Reichklasse F8 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 61 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 4,964 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 284 more horse power than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. (18 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1040 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 411 more torque (in Nm) than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. (49 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | DKW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Reichklasse F8 | S |
| Year Released | 1942 | 2003 |
| Engine Size | 584 cc | 4964 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 835 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2890 mm |
