1979 Daihatsu Charmant vs. 1983 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1983 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Daihatsu Charmant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Daihatsu Charmant would be higher. At 1,272 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 53 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 55 kg more than 1979 Daihatsu Charmant.
Because 1979 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 1979 Daihatsu Charmant. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1983 Volkswagen Golf (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Daihatsu Charmant. (83 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1983 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Daihatsu Charmant.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Daihatsu Charmant | 1983 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Volkswagen |
| Model | Charmant | Golf |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1164 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2480 mm |
