1988 Daihatsu Charade vs. 1974 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1988 Daihatsu Charade is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,285 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Daihatsu Charade (50 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Daihatsu Charade should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 30 kg more than 1988 Daihatsu Charade.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1974 Volkswagen Beetle (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Daihatsu Charade. (77 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1974 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Daihatsu Charade.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Daihatsu Charade | 1974 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Volkswagen |
| Model | Charade | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 993 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 50 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 77 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3620 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2410 mm |
