Economy-conscious urban commuters and small families.
Competitive Analysis
Key Competitors Era:
Suzuki Swift, Honda City, Nissan Micra/March, Toyota Starlet, Ford Fiesta.
Key Features
Design Philosophy:
Compact, fuel-efficient, practical, and reliable transportation.
Engine Type:
Small displacement, inline-three or inline-four gasoline engines.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) was standard.
Body Styles:
Typically offered as a 3-door or 5-door hatchback.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Primary Coverage:
Daihatsu Charade G11 with CB Series Engine
Secondary Coverage:
1985 Model Year
Page Count
Estimated Pages:
Approximately 300-500 (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals of this era)
Manual Type
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
Digital (PDF)
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed overhaul, repair, and troubleshooting of the CB Series engine (e.g., CB23, CB50, CB60, CB70, CB80, CB90 variants depending on market and trim).
Engine Performance:
Ignition timing, fuel mixture, emissions control systems (e.g., EGR, air injection).
Fuel System:
Carburetor (e.g., Mikuni, Hitachi) disassembly, cleaning, adjustment, and troubleshooting; fuel pump, fuel lines, and fuel tank service.
Cooling System:
Radiator, thermostat, water pump, cooling fan, hoses, and coolant specifications.
Approximately 993 cc (common for CB23/CB50 variants)
Bore X Stroke Mm:
Detailed specifications available in manual (e.g., 70.0 x 64.0 mm for CB23).
Performance
Horsepower Ps:
Typically 45-55 PS (for naturally aspirated versions)
Torque Nm:
Typically 70-80 Nm (for naturally aspirated versions)
Fuel System
Induction Type:
Carbureted (e.g., single-barrel or two-barrel carburetors depending on market/spec).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (typically 87 octane or higher, consult manual for specific grades)
Cooling System
Cooling Method:
Water-cooled
Lubrication System
Oil Capacity Liters:
Approximately 3.0 - 3.5 liters (including filter), check manual for exact capacity.
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
4-speed Manual Transmission
Optional
Type:
3-speed Automatic Transmission (market dependent)
Features
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate, hydraulically operated (typically)
Gear Ratios:
Detailed gear ratios for manual and automatic transmissions are in the manual.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Manual: GL-4 gear oil (viscosity typically 75W-85 or 75W-90). Automatic: DEXRON II or equivalent. Consult manual for specific part numbers.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length Mm:
Approx. 3535 mm (3-door model)
Width Mm:
Approx. 1570 mm
Height Mm:
Approx. 1370 mm
Wheelbase Mm:
Approx. 2250 mm
Weights
Curb Weight Kg:
Approx. 700-750 kg (depending on trim and equipment)
Gross Vehicle Weight Kg:
Consult manual for specific GVWR.
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Data:
Limited official crash test data available for this era and model globally. European NCAP was not established, and US NHTSA testing was less comprehensive for small imports.
Active Features
Brakes:
Front disc, rear drum (standard). ABS was not typically available on this model.
Passive Features
Seatbelts:
Front lap and shoulder belts, rear lap belts (typical).
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger cell for its time, but lacks modern crumple zone technology.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM radio, often with cassette player. Aftermarket head units are common upgrades.
Driver Assistance
ABS:
Not typically available.
Airbags:
Driver airbag was often an option or not available in many markets at this time.
Connectivity
Bluetooth Usb:
Not applicable; features from a much later era.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Engine Oil Change:
Every 5,000 km or 6 months, whichever comes first (typical for this era; consult manual for specific recommendation).
Oil Filter Replacement:
At every oil change.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-20,000 km or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000-30,000 km. Specific plug type and gap are critical (refer to manual).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical. Typically every 60,000-100,000 km or 4-5 years. **Interference engine consideration: Failure can cause severe engine damage. Check manual for exact interval and procedure.**
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil API Grade:
API SF or SG class. Viscosity typically 10W-30 or 10W-40 depending on ambient temperature. Consult manual.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio). Check manual for specific OEM recommendations if available.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Known Issues
Carburetor Issues:
Clogged jets, worn accelerator pump diaphragm, idle speed instability, often requiring cleaning and rebuilding.
Ignition System Wear:
Worn distributor cap and rotor, aging spark plug wires leading to misfires.
Suspension Bushings:
Degradation of rubber bushings in control arms and sway bars leading to clunking noises and poor handling.
Rust And Corrosion:
Common issue on older vehicles, particularly in areas exposed to salt and moisture. Check wheel wells, rocker panels, and underbody.
Cooling System Leaks:
Aging hoses and radiator core support can lead to coolant leaks.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Daihatsu Focus:
Daihatsu's reputation for producing small, economical, and reliable vehicles.
Model Evolution
Charade Generations:
The G11 was the third generation of the Daihatsu Charade, evolving from earlier models. It was characterized by its more modern styling compared to its predecessors.
Production
Production Years G11:
1983-1987
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (primarily)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
General Perception:
Praised for its affordability, fuel efficiency, and maneuverability. It was a practical choice for basic transportation.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Era:
Reviews from this period would have focused on economy and practicality rather than performance or advanced features.
Certifications
Emissions Standards:
Designed to meet the emissions regulations of the mid-1980s for its respective markets. Manual details specific emission control systems and testing procedures.