1979 Daihatsu Charade vs. 2004 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2004 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 25 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 3,933 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (280 HP) has 231 more horse power than 1979 Daihatsu Charade. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1979 Daihatsu Charade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 1028 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 2004 Ford Thunderbird 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 2004 Ford Thunderbird. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm) has 316 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Daihatsu Charade. (72 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Daihatsu Charade.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Daihatsu Charade | 2004 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Ford |
| Model | Charade | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 993 cc | 3933 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 280 HP |
| Torque | 72 Nm | 388 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 684 kg | 1712 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3490 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 68 L |
