1978 Daihatsu Charmant vs. 2007 Kia Optima
To start off, 2007 Kia Optima is newer by 29 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 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Kia Optima (162 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1978 Daihatsu Charmant. (67 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1978 Daihatsu Charmant.
Because 1978 Daihatsu Charmant is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 Daihatsu Charmant. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Kia Optima, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2007 Kia Optima (222 Nm @ 4260 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Daihatsu Charmant. (103 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2007 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Daihatsu Charmant.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Daihatsu Charmant | 2007 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Kia |
| Model | Charmant | Optima |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4260 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2730 mm |
