1978 Daihatsu Taft vs. 2008 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2008 Saturn Astra is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Daihatsu Taft. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Daihatsu Taft would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Saturn Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saturn Astra (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1978 Daihatsu Taft. (44 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 Daihatsu Taft. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Saturn Astra weights approximately 715 kg more than 1978 Daihatsu Taft. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Daihatsu Taft is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Saturn Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 2008 Saturn Astra (171 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Daihatsu Taft. (63 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Saturn Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Daihatsu Taft.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Daihatsu Taft | 2008 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Saturn |
| Model | Taft | Astra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Size | 958 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 63 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3370 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2620 mm |
