1981 Daihatsu Charmant vs. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Daihatsu Charmant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Daihatsu Charmant would be higher. At 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (101 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1981 Daihatsu Charmant. (53 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1981 Daihatsu Charmant.
Because 1981 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 1981 Daihatsu Charmant. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 Jetta (148 Nm @ 5600 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Daihatsu Charmant. (83 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Daihatsu Charmant.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Daihatsu Charmant | 2009 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Volkswagen |
| Model | Charmant | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1166 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
