Around the time that this aircraft was built things changed quite a bit, form the description it would seem that this is an "early" aircraft.
This would put the brake in the centre panel and a cable working the electrical master switch that is located on the engine frame near the battery.
Assuming this to be the case I can see how the aircraft is a little strange after the offerings from the USA but persist with it and take the time to understand the aerodynamics of the very simple but sophisticated wing.
In short the DR400 will lift more payload further, faster and off a shorter runway than any of the American aircraft with the same power.