1979 Daihatsu Charmant vs. 2009 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 30 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen GTI (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1979 Daihatsu Charmant. (53 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster 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, 2009 Volkswagen GTI, 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 GTI (207 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Daihatsu Charmant. (83 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Daihatsu Charmant.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Daihatsu Charmant | 2009 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Volkswagen |
| Model | Charmant | GTI |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1164 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 207 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2580 mm |
