1981 Daihatsu Taft vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle

To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Daihatsu Taft. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Daihatsu Taft would be higher. At 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1981 Daihatsu Taft. (44 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1981 Daihatsu Taft. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 278 kg more than 1981 Daihatsu Taft. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1981 Daihatsu Taft is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Daihatsu Taft. (64 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Daihatsu Taft.

Compare all specifications:

1981 Daihatsu Taft 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
Make Daihatsu Volkswagen
Model Taft Beetle
Year Released 1981 1999
Engine Size 958 cc 1786 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 44 HP 148 HP
Engine RPM 5400 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 64 Nm 220 Nm
Torque RPM 4200 RPM 2000 RPM
Drive Type 4WD Front
Vehicle Weight 1020 kg 1298 kg
Vehicle Length 3370 mm 4090 mm
Vehicle Width 1470 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1830 mm 1500 mm
Wheelbase Size 2030 mm 2470 mm


 

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