1966 DAF 44 vs. 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 DAF 44. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 DAF 44 would be higher. At 1,713 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit (64 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1966 DAF 44. (34 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit should accelerate faster than 1966 DAF 44. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit weights approximately 105 kg more than 1966 DAF 44. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 DAF 44 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 1966 DAF 44. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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, 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 DAF 44. (71 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 DAF 44.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 DAF 44 | 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | DAF | Volkswagen |
| Model | 44 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 844 cc | 1713 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2410 mm |
