1974 DAF 66 vs. 2011 Opel Astra
To start off, 2011 Opel Astra is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 DAF 66. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 DAF 66 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 1974 DAF 66. (45 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1974 DAF 66. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Opel Astra weights approximately 797 kg more than 1974 DAF 66. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 DAF 66. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 DAF 66. (75 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2011 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 DAF 66.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 DAF 66 | 2011 Opel Astra | |
| Make | DAF | Opel |
| Model | 66 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1108 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 45 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 75 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 137 km/hour | 234 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 828 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3870 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 52 L |
