1994 Daihatsu Charade DeTomaso review from Australia and New Zealand
"Non-turbo"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
-Horns don't work properly.
-Rattly rear suspension.
-Rattly timing gear/valve train.
-Electric mirrors are somewhat unreliable.
General comments?
-Fairly quick.
-Handles extremely well.
-Rather rare.
-Factory Recaro seats are very comfortable, yet will wear rapidly, due to their high side bolsters.
-Runs very rich, and is very thirsty.
-Red paint requires constant attention to prevent it fading/oxidizing.
-Exhaust system has been modified on this car, and aftermarket air filter element fitted.
-These cars are not a turbo, but everyone seems to think they are.
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![]() ![]() | A cheap to run pocket rocket! |
![]() ![]() | Problem after problem |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2002 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.6 EFI SOHC 16v Manual |
| Performance marks | 7/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 3/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 47000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 53000 miles |
| Previous car | Leyland Mini |
| Date of Entry | 19th December, 2002 |





