1991 Daihatsu Charade vs. 1979 Datsun 280
To start off, 1991 Daihatsu Charade is newer by 12 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 2,751 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun 280 (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1991 Daihatsu Charade. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1991 Daihatsu Charade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 482 kg more than 1991 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, 1991 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 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Daihatsu Charade. (77 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Daihatsu Charade.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Daihatsu Charade | 1979 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Datsun |
| Model | Charade | 280 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 992 cc | 2751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 77 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 79 mm |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1272 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3620 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2530 mm |
