2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1978 Daihatsu Charmant
To start off, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 29 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 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1978 Daihatsu Charmant. (67 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1978 Daihatsu Charmant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 890 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, 2007 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, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Daihatsu Charmant. (103 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Daihatsu Charmant.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1978 Daihatsu Charmant | |
| Make | Chrysler | Daihatsu |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Charmant |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2340 mm |
