2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1974 Daihatsu Charmant
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 29 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 2,425 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1974 Daihatsu Charmant. (62 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1974 Daihatsu Charmant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 590 kg more than 1974 Daihatsu Charmant. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (332 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Daihatsu Charmant. (114 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Daihatsu Charmant.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1974 Daihatsu Charmant | |
| Make | Chrysler | Daihatsu |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Charmant |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 1407 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1502 kg | 912 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2340 mm |
