1962 Fiat 1300 vs. 1978 Nissan Cherry
To start off, 1978 Nissan Cherry is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Fiat 1300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Fiat 1300 would be higher. At 1,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1962 Fiat 1300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Fiat 1300 (64 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1978 Nissan Cherry. (51 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1962 Fiat 1300 should accelerate faster than 1978 Nissan Cherry. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 Fiat 1300 weights approximately 135 kg more than 1978 Nissan Cherry. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 Fiat 1300 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 1962 Fiat 1300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Nissan Cherry, 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. 1978 Nissan Cherry has automatic transmission and 1962 Fiat 1300 has manual transmission. 1962 Fiat 1300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Nissan Cherry will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Fiat 1300 | 1978 Nissan Cherry | |
| Make | Fiat | Nissan |
| Model | 1300 | Cherry |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 1170 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2400 mm |
