i have a pair of boots that require 58 strength, but other than swords, this was the highest strength requirement i saw, or at least, used.
speed does matter, but not as much as strength and agility. speed is affecting evasion and initiative.
i ran my DK as a fighter, and hero as a bow-azon. i ended the game at 35th + level.
these are undoctored (no potions, no hex edit) pics just prior to the ending. i DID however take advantage of the (help me out peeps) 8-10 permanent potions(???) found in-game and the 21 (i think) holy waters i found.
DK and
ZAN if you'd like to see the individual stats as well as their base total(s), look in here -
ending stats