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 1,461 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Renault Megane (81 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1978 Daihatsu Charmant. (67 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 420 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 (185 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Daihatsu Charmant. (103 Nm @ 3600 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 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1288 cc | 1461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2630 mm |
