2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1979 Daihatsu Charmant
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Daihatsu Charmant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Daihatsu Charmant would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (119 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1979 Daihatsu Charmant. (67 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1979 Daihatsu Charmant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 783 kg more than 1979 Daihatsu Charmant. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Daihatsu Charmant. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Daihatsu Charmant. (103 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Daihatsu Charmant.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1979 Daihatsu Charmant | |
| Make | Chrysler | Daihatsu |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Charmant |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1613 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2340 mm |
