1998 Daihatsu Charade Reviews, Pricing & Specs

I rented a Daihatsu Charade (it IS a charade) in Grand Cayman, and as we were driving along, we heard a creak and rattle, so we got out, and the EXHAUST FELL OFF! Performance: poor acceleration, bad brakes, poor handling. Build Quality: Very squeaky/rattly. Appearance: Very ugly car, too low to ground, wheels the size of dinner plates, and too small and cramped. Fun Factor: This car is as fun to drive as getting stuck in the wilderness surrounded by wolves.Feb 26, 2011

This 1998 Daihatsu Charade has most probably earned itself the nickname of a smiley face. With this tag, it is hard to associate itself with any lavish comments. However, as my first ever vehicle, it had served me well. I had bought it with a mileage of approx 38000km and took it for a spin for about 3 years. Throughout this time, it had traveled long distances (500km per trip) and short distances (lazy to walk to my neighbours) ... and guess what, no problems whatsoever. This is definitely a no nonsense first car that you would want as a first car. It is relatively new compared to others of its price/year, e.g. hyundai excel, suzuki swift etc. Furthermore with the very fact that its 1.5l engine can do a 500-600km range in 1 tank of unleaded, it is definitely worth a shout if you are shopping with a budget. Do note, however, that not every charade a fitted with Air Con. So do get one with Air Con, or be ready to be toasted during the summers! Sep 12, 2008