1979 Daihatsu Charade vs. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 26 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 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (108 HP) has 72 more horse power than 1979 Daihatsu Charade. (36 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1979 Daihatsu Charade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 399 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 2005 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 2005 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 | 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Mazda |
| Model | Charade | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 991 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 126 km/hour | 191 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 711 kg | 1110 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 |
