1983 Daihatsu Charade vs. 2003 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2003 Smart Roadster is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Daihatsu Charade. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Daihatsu Charade would be higher. At 993 cc (3 cylinders), 1983 Daihatsu Charade is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Smart Roadster (81 HP) has 14 more horse power than 1983 Daihatsu Charade. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Smart Roadster should accelerate faster than 1983 Daihatsu Charade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Smart Roadster weights approximately 155 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 2003 Smart Roadster 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 2003 Smart Roadster. 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, 2003 Smart Roadster (110 Nm @ 2250 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Daihatsu Charade. (106 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Smart Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Daihatsu Charade.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Daihatsu Charade | 2003 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Smart |
| Model | Charade | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 993 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 81 HP |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.1 mm | 66.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 67 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 730 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3560 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2370 mm |
