1979 Daihatsu Taft 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 Taft. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Daihatsu Taft would be higher. At 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1979 Daihatsu Taft. (44 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1979 Daihatsu Taft. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 330 kg more than 1979 Daihatsu Taft. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Daihatsu Taft is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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 Volkswagen New Beetle (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Daihatsu Taft. (63 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Daihatsu Taft.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Daihatsu Taft | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Volkswagen |
| Model | Taft | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Engine Size | 958 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 63 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3370 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2520 mm |
