1981 Daihatsu Taft vs. 2005 Lotus Exige
To start off, 2005 Lotus Exige is newer by 24 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Lotus Exige is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Exige (243 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 199 more horse power than 1981 Daihatsu Taft. (44 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1981 Daihatsu Taft. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Daihatsu Taft weights approximately 90 kg more than 2005 Lotus Exige.
Because 1981 Daihatsu Taft is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Lotus Exige. 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, 2005 Lotus Exige (236 Nm @ 7000 RPM) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Daihatsu Taft. (64 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2005 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Daihatsu Taft.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Daihatsu Taft | 2005 Lotus Exige | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Lotus |
| Model | Taft | Exige |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Engine Size | 958 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 243 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3370 mm | 3800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2310 mm |
