1955 Abarth 208 vs. 1978 Daihatsu Charmant
To start off, 1978 Daihatsu Charmant is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Abarth 208. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Abarth 208 would be higher. At 1,586 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Daihatsu Charmant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Daihatsu Charmant (82 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1955 Abarth 208. (65 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Daihatsu Charmant should accelerate faster than 1955 Abarth 208. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Daihatsu Charmant weights approximately 25 kg more than 1955 Abarth 208. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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. 1978 Daihatsu Charmant has automatic transmission and 1955 Abarth 208 has manual transmission. 1955 Abarth 208 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:
| 1955 Abarth 208 | 1978 Daihatsu Charmant | |
| Make | Abarth | Daihatsu |
| Model | 208 | Charmant |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1088 cc | 1586 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 65 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 950 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2060 mm | 2340 mm |
