1966 Datsun 1000 vs. 1989 Dodge Spirit
To start off, 1989 Dodge Spirit is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Datsun 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Datsun 1000 would be higher. At 2,213 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Dodge Spirit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Dodge Spirit (150 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1966 Datsun 1000. (61 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Dodge Spirit should accelerate faster than 1966 Datsun 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Dodge Spirit weights approximately 691 kg more than 1966 Datsun 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Datsun 1000 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 1966 Datsun 1000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Dodge Spirit, 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, 1989 Dodge Spirit (244 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Datsun 1000. (84 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Dodge Spirit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Datsun 1000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Datsun 1000 | 1989 Dodge Spirit | |
| Make | Datsun | Dodge |
| Model | 1000 | Spirit |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 988 cc | 2213 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 61 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 625 kg | 1316 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2630 mm |
