1970 Datsun 1200 vs. 1984 Ford Orion
To start off, 1984 Ford Orion is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Datsun 1200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Datsun 1200 would be higher. At 1,608 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Ford Orion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Datsun 1200 (69 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1984 Ford Orion. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Datsun 1200 should accelerate faster than 1984 Ford Orion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Ford Orion weights approximately 255 kg more than 1970 Datsun 1200.
Because 1970 Datsun 1200 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 1970 Datsun 1200. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Ford Orion, 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, both vehicles can yield 95 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Datsun 1200 | 1984 Ford Orion | |
| Make | Datsun | Ford |
| Model | 1200 | Orion |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1171 cc | 1608 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 21.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 695 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 39 L | 55 L |
