1970 Datsun 100A Cherry vs. 1979 Datsun 280
To start off, 1979 Datsun 280 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Datsun 100A Cherry. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Datsun 100A Cherry would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun 280 (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1970 Datsun 100A Cherry. (58 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1970 Datsun 100A Cherry. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 560 kg more than 1970 Datsun 100A Cherry. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Datsun 280 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 1979 Datsun 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1970 Datsun 100A 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. Let's talk about torque, 1979 Datsun 280 (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Datsun 100A Cherry. (81 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Datsun 100A Cherry.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Datsun 100A Cherry | 1979 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | Datsun | Datsun |
| Model | 100A Cherry | 280 |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 988 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 81 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 59 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 645 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2330 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 80 L |
