2008 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 1978 Daihatsu Charmant
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Daihatsu Charmant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Daihatsu Charmant would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 356 kg more than 1978 Daihatsu Charmant.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Daihatsu Charmant. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 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, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (149 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Daihatsu Charmant. (130 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Daihatsu Charmant. 1978 Daihatsu Charmant has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Daihatsu Charmant will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Jetta | 1978 Daihatsu Charmant | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Daihatsu |
| Model | Jetta | Charmant |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 82 HP |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1271 kg | 915 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2340 mm |
