1974 Daihatsu Charmant vs. 2004 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2004 Lotus Esprit is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Daihatsu Charmant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Daihatsu Charmant would be higher. At 3,507 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Lotus Esprit (350 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 288 more horse power than 1974 Daihatsu Charmant. (62 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1974 Daihatsu Charmant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 468 kg more than 1974 Daihatsu Charmant. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2004 Lotus Esprit (400 Nm) has 286 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Daihatsu Charmant. (114 Nm). This means 2004 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Daihatsu Charmant.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Daihatsu Charmant | 2004 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Lotus |
| Model | Charmant | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1407 cc | 3507 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 912 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2430 mm |
