2008 Buick Lucerne vs. 1978 Daihatsu Charmant

To start off, 2008 Buick Lucerne is newer by 30 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Buick Lucerne is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Buick Lucerne (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1978 Daihatsu Charmant. (67 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Buick Lucerne should accelerate faster than 1978 Daihatsu Charmant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Buick Lucerne weights approximately 827 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, 2008 Buick Lucerne, 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, 2008 Buick Lucerne (309 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Daihatsu Charmant. (103 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Buick Lucerne will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Daihatsu Charmant.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Buick Lucerne 1978 Daihatsu Charmant
Make Buick Daihatsu
Model Lucerne Charmant
Year Released 2008 1978
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3791 cc 1289 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 197 HP 67 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 309 Nm 103 Nm
Torque RPM 3800 RPM 3600 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Vehicle Weight 1617 kg 790 kg
Vehicle Length 5170 mm 4000 mm
Vehicle Width 1880 mm 1530 mm
Vehicle Height 1480 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2940 mm 2340 mm