2001 Daihatsu Copen vs. 1974 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2001 Daihatsu Copen is newer by 27 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, 2001 Daihatsu Copen (62 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Daihatsu Copen should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 20 kg more than 2001 Daihatsu Copen.
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, 2001 Daihatsu Copen (108 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Daihatsu Copen will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Daihatsu Copen | 1974 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Volkswagen |
| Model | Copen | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 659 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2410 mm |
