1979 Daihatsu Charade vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 30 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (164 HP) has 115 more horse power than 1979 Daihatsu Charade. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1979 Daihatsu Charade.
Because 2009 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 2009 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. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (140 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Daihatsu Charade. (72 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Daihatsu Charade.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Daihatsu Charade | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Mazda |
| Model | Charade | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 993 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 164 HP |
| Torque | 72 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3490 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 50 L |
