1981 Daihatsu Charmant vs. 1991 Opel Astra
To start off, 1991 Opel Astra is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Daihatsu Charmant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Daihatsu Charmant would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Opel Astra (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1981 Daihatsu Charmant. (53 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1981 Daihatsu Charmant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Opel Astra weights approximately 240 kg more than 1981 Daihatsu Charmant. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Daihatsu Charmant. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Opel Astra, 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, 1991 Opel Astra (135 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Daihatsu Charmant. (83 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1991 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Daihatsu Charmant.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Daihatsu Charmant | 1991 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Opel |
| Model | Charmant | Astra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1166 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2530 mm |
