1988 Ford Sierra vs. 1981 Nissan Cherry
To start off, 1988 Ford Sierra is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Cherry. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Cherry would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Ford Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Nissan Cherry (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1988 Ford Sierra. (74 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Cherry should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Sierra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Sierra weights approximately 165 kg more than 1981 Nissan Cherry.
Because 1988 Ford Sierra 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 1988 Ford Sierra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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. Let's talk about torque, both vehicles can yield 123 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:
| 1988 Ford Sierra | 1981 Nissan Cherry | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Sierra | Cherry |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1015 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2400 mm |
