1979 Daihatsu Charade vs. 1988 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1988 Lotus Esprit is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Daihatsu Charade. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Daihatsu Charade would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Lotus Esprit (172 HP) has 121 more horse power than 1979 Daihatsu Charade. (51 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1979 Daihatsu Charade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 491 kg more than 1979 Daihatsu Charade. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Lotus Esprit 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 1988 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Daihatsu Charade, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Daihatsu Charade | 1988 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Lotus |
| Model | Charade | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 993 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 172 HP |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 685 kg | 1176 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3560 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2440 mm |
