1983 Daihatsu Charade vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1983 Daihatsu Charade is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Datsun 260Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Datsun 260Z would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Datsun 260Z (163 HP) has 96 more horse power than 1983 Daihatsu Charade. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1983 Daihatsu Charade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 260Z weights approximately 470 kg more than 1983 Daihatsu Charade. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Datsun 260Z 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 1978 Datsun 260Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1978 Datsun 260Z (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Daihatsu Charade. (106 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Daihatsu Charade.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Daihatsu Charade | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Datsun |
| Model | Charade | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 993 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 163 HP |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 730 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3560 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2581 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 60 L |
