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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP) has 122 more horse power than 1979 Daihatsu Charade. (36 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1979 Daihatsu Charade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 444 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 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.
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 | 991 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 126 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 711 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3560 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2340 mm |
