2003 Daihatsu Charade vs. 1979 Datsun 280
To start off, 2003 Daihatsu Charade is newer by 24 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 83 more horse power than 2003 Daihatsu Charade. (57 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 2003 Daihatsu Charade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 527 kg more than 2003 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, 2003 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 112 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Daihatsu Charade. (90 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Daihatsu Charade. 2003 Daihatsu Charade has automatic transmission and 1979 Datsun 280 has manual transmission. 1979 Datsun 280 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 | 1979 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Datsun |
| Model | Charade | 280 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 989 cc | 2751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 90 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 745 kg | 1272 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2530 mm |
