1980 Austin Mini Metro vs. 1974 Daihatsu Charmant
To start off, 1980 Austin Mini Metro is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Daihatsu Charmant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Daihatsu Charmant would be higher. At 1,406 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Daihatsu Charmant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 62 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. 1974 Daihatsu Charmant weights approximately 171 kg more than 1980 Austin Mini Metro.
Because 1974 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 1974 Daihatsu Charmant. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Austin Mini Metro, 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, 1974 Daihatsu Charmant (114 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (97 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 1974 Daihatsu Charmant will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Austin Mini Metro.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Austin Mini Metro | 1974 Daihatsu Charmant | |
| Make | Austin | Daihatsu |
| Model | Mini Metro | Charmant |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1257 cc | 1406 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5650 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 97 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 754 kg | 925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2340 mm |
