1958 BMW 600 vs. 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8
To start off, 1958 BMW 600 is newer by 16 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 584 cc (2 cylinders), 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 BMW 600 (20 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8. (18 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1958 BMW 600 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 285 kg more than 1958 BMW 600.
Because 1958 BMW 600 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 1958 BMW 600. 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, 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8 (49 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 BMW 600. (38 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 BMW 600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 BMW 600 | 1942 DKW Reichklasse F8 | |
| Make | BMW | DKW |
| Model | 600 | Reichklasse F8 |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1942 |
| Engine Size | 583 cc | 584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 18 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 38 Nm | 49 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 550 kg | 835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2910 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1710 mm | 2620 mm |
