1966 DAF 44 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 47 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1966 DAF 44. (34 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1966 DAF 44. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 620 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 DAF 44. (71 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 DAF 44.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 DAF 44 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | DAF | Volkswagen |
| Model | 44 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 844 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.6:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4277 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2537 mm |
