Small car topics

Datsun Cherry

Following our recent experiences with the Datsuit 240Z and the 1200 saloon we were invited back to Worthing to borrow one of the interesting little Cherry models, have a run round in the just introduced, big, 240C saloon and look around the spares facility on the Trading Estate at Lancing. We took the Cherry away for a full week’s driving in which time this little 998-c.c., 59-b.h.p., Japanese saloon was made to work very hard for its living.

The Cherry is the Japanese answer to the Mini, with its transversely-mounted engine driving through a pleasant four-speed gearbox, and, has all independent suspension. We tried the four-door model but two door and Estate versions are also available. At just under £800 it is £50 more expensive than the Mini 1000 but does boast of an excellent specification including hazard warning lights, two-speed wipers and electric washer, heater, steering lock, reversing light, electric fan, sealed in anti-freeze and an alternator.

Our car was also fitted with the optional disc brakes which are probably to be recommended as one tends to drive the little Cherry with the same verve and enthusiasm as one would a Mini. The engine works hard and Datsun claim a top speed of 87 m.p.h. We did not fit a fifth wheel, so do not know the accuracy of the speedometer, but we did see 100 m.p.h. downhill with the wind behind us. Considering this is the cheapest car in the Datsun range we were impressed with the general finish of the car and, under the bonnet, the engineering looked very sound and accessibility was good.

Like the Fiat 127, mentioned above, the Datsun Cherry is a very interesting addition to the Mini market and should appeal to British motorists considering cheap and reliable transport. — A. R. M.