1989 Nissan Prairie vs. 1981 Nissan Cherry
To start off, 1989 Nissan Prairie is newer by 8 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 1,485 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Nissan Prairie is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Nissan Prairie (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Cherry. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Nissan Prairie should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Cherry. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Nissan Prairie weights approximately 150 kg more than 1981 Nissan Cherry. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Nissan Prairie (121 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Cherry. (96 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1989 Nissan Prairie will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Cherry.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Nissan Prairie | 1981 Nissan Cherry | |
| Make | Nissan | Nissan |
| Model | Prairie | Cherry |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1981 |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 1270 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2400 mm |
