1942 DKW Reichklasse F8 vs. 2005 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2005 Smart ForTwo is newer by 63 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 797 cc (3 cylinders), 2005 Smart ForTwo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Smart ForTwo (40 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. (18 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Smart ForTwo 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 2005 Smart ForTwo.
Because 2005 Smart ForTwo 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 2005 Smart ForTwo. 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, 2005 Smart ForTwo (100 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. (49 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Smart ForTwo 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 | 2005 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | DKW | Smart |
| Model | Reichklasse F8 | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1942 | 2005 |
| Engine Size | 584 cc | 797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 40 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 65.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 835 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 2510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 1820 mm |
