1974 Austin 1800 vs. 1966 DAF 44
To start off, 1974 Austin 1800 is newer by 8 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Austin 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Austin 1800 (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1966 DAF 44. (34 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Austin 1800 should accelerate faster than 1966 DAF 44. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Austin 1800 weights approximately 450 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, 1974 Austin 1800, 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, 1974 Austin 1800 (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 DAF 44. (71 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1974 Austin 1800 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 DAF 44.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Austin 1800 | 1966 DAF 44 | |
| Make | Austin | DAF |
| Model | 1800 | 44 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 844 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 71 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.3 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 7.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2260 mm |
