1987 Daihatsu Charade vs. 1980 Fiat 126
To start off, 1987 Daihatsu Charade is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 993 cc (3 cylinders), 1987 Daihatsu Charade is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Daihatsu Charade (66 HP) has 42 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 126. (24 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Daihatsu Charade should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Daihatsu Charade weights approximately 197 kg more than 1980 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Fiat 126 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 1980 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 1987 Daihatsu Charade (106 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1987 Daihatsu Charade will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Daihatsu Charade | 1980 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Fiat |
| Model | Charade | 126 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 993 cc | 652 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 24 HP |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.1 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 70 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 782 kg | 585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3610 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1390 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 1850 mm |
