1978 Daihatsu Charmant vs. 2001 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2001 Smart ForTwo is newer by 23 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 1,166 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Daihatsu Charmant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Smart ForTwo (74 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1978 Daihatsu Charmant. (59 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Smart ForTwo should accelerate faster than 1978 Daihatsu Charmant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Smart ForTwo weights approximately 28 kg more than 1978 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Daihatsu Charmant | 2001 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Smart |
| Model | Charmant | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1166 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 66.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 67 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 792 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 2510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1520 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 1820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 33 L |
