2004 Caterham 7 vs. 1978 Daihatsu Taft
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Daihatsu Taft. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Daihatsu Taft would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (200 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1978 Daihatsu Taft. (44 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1978 Daihatsu Taft. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Daihatsu Taft weights approximately 480 kg more than 2004 Caterham 7.
Because 1978 Daihatsu Taft is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Caterham 7. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Daihatsu Taft will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Caterham 7 (224 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Daihatsu Taft. (63 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Daihatsu Taft.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 1978 Daihatsu Taft | |
| Make | Caterham | Daihatsu |
| Model | 7 | Taft |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 63 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3310 mm | 3370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2030 mm |
