2008 Daihatsu Copen vs. 1978 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Daihatsu Copen is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,093 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Daihatsu Copen (67 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (49 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Daihatsu Copen should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Daihatsu Copen weights approximately 220 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 2008 Daihatsu Copen (100 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Daihatsu Copen will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Daihatsu Copen | 1978 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Volkswagen |
| Model | Copen | Polo |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 659 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 61 mm | 69.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 56.4 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 905 kg | 685 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 3510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 35 L |
