1989 Daihatsu Charade vs. 1979 Datsun 280
To start off, 1989 Daihatsu Charade is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Datsun 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Datsun 280 would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun 280 (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1989 Daihatsu Charade. (75 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1989 Daihatsu Charade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 360 kg more than 1989 Daihatsu Charade. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Datsun 280 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 1979 Datsun 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1979 Datsun 280 (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Daihatsu Charade. (102 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Daihatsu Charade.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Daihatsu Charade | 1979 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Datsun |
| Model | Charade | 280 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.4 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 845 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2330 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 37 L | 80 L |
