2003 Daihatsu Copen vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Daihatsu Copen is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (73 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2003 Daihatsu Copen. (67 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2003 Daihatsu Copen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 240 kg more than 2003 Daihatsu Copen. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (127 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Daihatsu Copen. (102 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Daihatsu Copen.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Daihatsu Copen | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Volkswagen |
| Model | Copen | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 657 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 61 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 56.4 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 55 L |
