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 1,586 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Daihatsu Charmant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Daihatsu Charmant (82 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2001 Smart ForTwo. (74 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Daihatsu Charmant should accelerate faster than 2001 Smart ForTwo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Daihatsu Charmant weights approximately 75 kg more than 2001 Smart ForTwo. 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 | 1586 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 82 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 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 |
