1979 Daihatsu Charade vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 20 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 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 265 kg more than 1979 Daihatsu Charade.
Because 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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 | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Mazda |
| Model | Charade | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 993 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 140 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3560 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 50 L |
