1981 Daihatsu Charmant vs. 2008 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2008 Smart Roadster is newer by 27 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 1,166 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Daihatsu Charmant is equipped with a bigger engine.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Smart Roadster (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Daihatsu Charmant. (83 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Smart Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Daihatsu Charmant. 2008 Smart Roadster has automatic transmission and 1981 Daihatsu Charmant has manual transmission. 1981 Daihatsu Charmant will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Smart Roadster will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Daihatsu Charmant | 2008 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Smart |
| Model | Charmant | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1166 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2370 mm |
