2001 Daihatsu Copen vs. 1970 Datsun 1200
To start off, 2001 Daihatsu Copen is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Datsun 1200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Datsun 1200 would be higher. At 1,171 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Datsun 1200 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Datsun 1200 (69 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2001 Daihatsu Copen. (62 HP @ 6800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Datsun 1200 should accelerate faster than 2001 Daihatsu Copen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Daihatsu Copen weights approximately 105 kg more than 1970 Datsun 1200.
Because 1970 Datsun 1200 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 1970 Datsun 1200. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Daihatsu Copen, 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, 2001 Daihatsu Copen (108 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Datsun 1200. (95 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Daihatsu Copen will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Datsun 1200.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Daihatsu Copen | 1970 Datsun 1200 | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Datsun |
| Model | Copen | 1200 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 659 cc | 1171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 61 mm | 73.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 56.4 mm | 70 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 39 L |
