1989 Daihatsu Applause vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Daihatsu Applause. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Daihatsu Applause would be higher. At 1,590 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Daihatsu Applause is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Daihatsu Applause (90 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Daihatsu Applause should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 343 kg more than 1989 Daihatsu Applause.
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, both vehicles can yield 130 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Daihatsu Applause | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Volkswagen |
| Model | Applause | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1268 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
