1979 Daihatsu Charmant vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 29 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 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (102 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1979 Daihatsu Charmant. (67 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1979 Daihatsu Charmant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 462 kg more than 1979 Daihatsu Charmant. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Daihatsu Charmant. (103 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Daihatsu Charmant.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Daihatsu Charmant | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Volkswagen |
| Model | Charmant | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1290 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 1292 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2520 mm |
