2004 Caterham 7 vs. 1980 Daihatsu Taft
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Daihatsu Taft. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Daihatsu Taft would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 207 more horse power than 1980 Daihatsu Taft. (44 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1980 Daihatsu Taft. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Daihatsu Taft weights approximately 550 kg more than 2004 Caterham 7.
Because 1980 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, 1980 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 (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 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 1980 Daihatsu Taft.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 1980 Daihatsu Taft | |
| Make | Caterham | Daihatsu |
| Model | 7 | Taft |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 63 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 3370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2030 mm |
