1972 DAF 66 vs. 1998 Opel Meriva
To start off, 1998 Opel Meriva 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 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Meriva (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1972 DAF 66. (46 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1972 DAF 66. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Meriva weights approximately 549 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 Opel Meriva, 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 Opel Meriva (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 DAF 66. (75 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 DAF 66.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 DAF 66 | 1998 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | DAF | Opel |
| Model | 66 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1106 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 46 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 75 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 826 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3880 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2640 mm |
