1978 Daihatsu Charmant vs. 2008 Renault Megane

To start off, 2008 Renault Megane is newer by 30 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 1,869 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Renault Megane (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1978 Daihatsu Charmant. (82 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1978 Daihatsu Charmant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Renault Megane weights approximately 430 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.

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, 2008 Renault Megane, 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, 2008 Renault Megane (270 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Daihatsu Charmant. (130 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Daihatsu Charmant.

Compare all specifications:

1978 Daihatsu Charmant 2008 Renault Megane
Make Daihatsu Renault
Model Charmant Megane
Year Released 1978 2008
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1586 cc 1869 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 82 HP 118 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 130 Nm 270 Nm
Torque RPM 3400 RPM 2000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 895 kg 1325 kg
Vehicle Length 4000 mm 4220 mm
Vehicle Width 1530 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2340 mm 2630 mm