1999 Daihatsu Charade vs. 1979 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1999 Daihatsu Charade is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Lotus Esprit (160 HP) has 77 more horse power than 1999 Daihatsu Charade. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1999 Daihatsu Charade.
Because 1979 Lotus Esprit 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 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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 Lotus Esprit (217 Nm) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Daihatsu Charade. (105 Nm). This means 1979 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Daihatsu Charade.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Daihatsu Charade | 1979 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Lotus |
| Model | Charade | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2440 mm |
