2006 Chevrolet SSR vs. 1981 Nissan Cherry
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet SSR is newer by 25 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 5,965 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet SSR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet SSR (401 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 342 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Cherry. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet SSR should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Cherry. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet SSR weights approximately 253 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.
Because 2006 Chevrolet SSR 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 2006 Chevrolet SSR. 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, 2006 Chevrolet SSR (542 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 446 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Cherry. (96 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet SSR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Cherry.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet SSR | 1981 Nissan Cherry | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
| Model | SSR | Cherry |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5965 cc | 1270 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 401 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 542 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1078 kg | 825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2400 mm |
