1979 Daihatsu Charade vs. 2008 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2008 Toyota MR2 is newer by 29 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 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota MR2 (138 HP) has 72 more horse power than 1979 Daihatsu Charade. (66 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1979 Daihatsu Charade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 339 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 2008 Toyota MR2 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 2008 Toyota MR2. 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, 2008 Toyota MR2 (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Daihatsu Charade. (106 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Daihatsu Charade.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Daihatsu Charade | 2008 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Toyota |
| Model | Charade | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 993 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 79.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 91.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 726 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3560 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2460 mm |
