1966 DAF 44 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 32 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1966 DAF 44. (34 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1966 DAF 44. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 380 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 DAF 44. (71 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 DAF 44.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 DAF 44 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | DAF | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 44 | A |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 844 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.6:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2430 mm |
