1977 Daihatsu Charmant vs. 1968 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1977 Daihatsu Charmant is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Lotus Elan (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1977 Daihatsu Charmant. (59 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1977 Daihatsu Charmant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Daihatsu Charmant weights approximately 380 kg more than 1968 Lotus Elan.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Daihatsu Charmant | 1968 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Lotus |
| Model | Charmant | Elan |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1166 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 810 kg | 430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1100 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2240 mm |
