1966 DAF 44 vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 46 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Astra (239 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 205 more horse power than 1966 DAF 44. (34 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1966 DAF 44. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Opel Astra weights approximately 653 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, 2012 Opel Astra, 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, 2012 Opel Astra (320 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 249 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 DAF 44. (71 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 DAF 44.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 DAF 44 | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | DAF | Opel |
| Model | 44 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 844 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 239 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.6:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 114 km/hour | 244 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2620 mm |
