1972 DAF 66 vs. 1998 Mazda 121
To start off, 1998 Mazda 121 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 DAF 66. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 DAF 66 would be higher. At 1,242 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 121 (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1972 DAF 66. (46 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1972 DAF 66. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 121 weights approximately 165 kg more than 1972 DAF 66. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 DAF 66 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 1972 DAF 66. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 121, 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 Mazda 121 (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 DAF 66. (75 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 DAF 66.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 DAF 66 | 1998 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | DAF | Mazda |
| Model | 66 | 121 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1106 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 46 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 75 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 826 kg | 991 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3880 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2460 mm |
