1966 DAF 44 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 35 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 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A (80 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1966 DAF 44. (34 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1966 DAF 44. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 280 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, 2001 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A (131 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 DAF 44. (71 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2001 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 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | DAF | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 44 | A |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 844 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2600 mm |
