1987 Daihatsu Charade vs. 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Daihatsu Charade. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Daihatsu Charade would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (166 HP) has 100 more horse power than 1987 Daihatsu Charade. (66 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1987 Daihatsu Charade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 398 kg more than 1987 Daihatsu Charade. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Daihatsu Charade. (106 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Daihatsu Charade.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Daihatsu Charade | 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Mazda |
| Model | Charade | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 993 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 166 HP |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.1 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 782 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3610 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2340 mm |
