Description
Up for a very reluctant sale is my tax-exempt Datsun Cherry. I bought this car several years ago and its never let us down.
These Cherries are now ultra-rare and this particular car, built in 1972, is one of the earliest of these cars still in existence. Its fitted with a one litre powerplant that howls when you rev it and though the suspension is fairly soft, it handles like a go-cart. Its at it's best being thrown around country lanes and is great fun to drive.
The car is MoT'd till the end of June. It required no work to pass the last test and at the moment, requires nothing doing to pass another. Its in lovely condition all round.
The current mileage is 32400 and this is reflected in every aspect of the car. Externally, it shines nearly as new. Over the years, the car has had a few new panels fitted..... one sill, front and rear valances and front wings among them. The paintwork is sound and though there are a couple of very minor car park dents, its not bad for 38 years old. The chromework is all present and shiny even down to the NOS original, stainless wiper blades. A couple of minor dents in the bumpers but they're both still very presentable. The Cosmic alloy wheels in the pictures will not be sold with the car. It will come with standard steel wheels and cross-shaped hub caps.
Mechanically, its fine. The engine purrs and everything else works as it should. Its recently had a new fuel pump and a few brake components have been replaced along with the rear shock absorbers. Some time ago, I fitted a new, larger radiator from another Cherry variant. The cooling system can deal with the longest traffic jam on the hottest day.
Inside, its a fantastic 70s mix of plastic and vinyl. The dash top is sound, the seats have no tears or splits and everything electrical works. The standard Grundig radio has been replaced by a Phillips aftermarket item of the same vintage as the car. The carpet has minor patches of wear due to the driver's shoes rubbing but again, expected and allowed in cars this age.
Despite it's great condition, there is still some work for the new owner to do, mostly under the bonnet, so you won't get bored with just having to polish it all the time. Rarely parked outside in my ownership, its had a lot of care and little expense spared. It will be sadly missed and, in this condition, impossible to replace. I have a large, personal collection of 70s Datsuns and this one is only for sale due to the impending loss of a vital amount of garage space. I'll be moving several more on through these pages over the next few months.
