1983 Chrysler Laser vs. 1978 Daihatsu Charmant
To start off, 1983 Chrysler Laser is newer by 5 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 2,213 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Chrysler Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Chrysler Laser (143 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1978 Daihatsu Charmant. (82 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Chrysler Laser should accelerate faster than 1978 Daihatsu Charmant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Chrysler Laser weights approximately 390 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, 1983 Chrysler Laser, 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, 1983 Chrysler Laser (217 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Daihatsu Charmant. (130 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1983 Chrysler Laser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Daihatsu Charmant.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Chrysler Laser | 1978 Daihatsu Charmant | |
| Make | Chrysler | Daihatsu |
| Model | Laser | Charmant |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2213 cc | 1586 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2340 mm |
