1979 Daihatsu Charmant vs. 1980 Renault 12
To start off, 1980 Renault 12 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Daihatsu Charmant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Daihatsu Charmant would be higher. At 1,288 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 53 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Renault 12 weights approximately 110 kg more than 1979 Daihatsu Charmant.
Because 1979 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 1979 Daihatsu Charmant. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Renault 12, 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, 1980 Renault 12 (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Daihatsu Charmant. (83 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1980 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Daihatsu Charmant.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Daihatsu Charmant | 1980 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Renault |
| Model | Charmant | 12 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1164 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2450 mm |
