2003 Daihatsu Charade vs. 1978 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2003 Daihatsu Charade is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 989 cc (3 cylinders), 2003 Daihatsu Charade is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Daihatsu Charade (57 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1978 Ford Fiesta. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Daihatsu Charade should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Daihatsu Charade weights approximately 30 kg more than 1978 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Daihatsu Charade (90 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2003 Daihatsu Charade will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Fiesta. 2003 Daihatsu Charade has automatic transmission and 1978 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 1978 Ford Fiesta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Daihatsu Charade will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Daihatsu Charade | 1978 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Ford |
| Model | Charade | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 989 cc | 956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 39 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 90 Nm | 64 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 745 kg | 715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 3570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2300 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 34 L |
