1978 Daihatsu Charmant vs. 2009 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Daihatsu Charmant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Daihatsu Charmant would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Polo (149 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1978 Daihatsu Charmant. (67 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1978 Daihatsu Charmant.
Because 1978 Daihatsu Charmant 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 1978 Daihatsu Charmant. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 2009 Volkswagen Polo (220 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Daihatsu Charmant. (103 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Daihatsu Charmant.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Daihatsu Charmant | 2009 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Volkswagen |
| Model | Charmant | Polo |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2470 mm |
