1975 Daihatsu Taft vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Daihatsu Taft. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Daihatsu Taft would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1975 Daihatsu Taft. (44 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1975 Daihatsu Taft. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 380 kg more than 1975 Daihatsu Taft. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 Daihatsu Taft is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 Daihatsu Taft will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Daihatsu Taft. (63 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Daihatsu Taft.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Daihatsu Taft | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Volkswagen |
| Model | Taft | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2003 |
| Engine Size | 956 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 63 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3370 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2510 mm |
