The Datsun Cherry was known as F-II in Japan and “Datsun F10” in North America. It was Nissan’s first front-wheel-drive model to be sold in North America. Four-wheel independent suspension continued to be used. Sales of the F-II were generally disappointing, and the “Cherry” nameplate was retired in Japan after this generation.
The F10 was fitted with three types of inline four-cylinder Nissan A-series OHV engines:
988 cc A10
1171 cc A12
1397 cc A14
A two-pedal type semi-automatic transmission was offered called the “Sportmatic”, which used a torque converter obviating the need for a clutch.
In Europe, F10 was known as Datsun 100A F-II (with A10 engine) or 120A F-II (with A12 engine). The A12 powered 120A F-II was the most common model.
In New Zealand the 100A 4-door sedan (1.0L A10 motor) was assembled from CKD kits as a price leader for the Datsun range – due to the choice of engine, it was the smallest engined car assembled in New Zealand, the engine (988 cc) being smaller than the Mini’s 998 cc unit. Production continued well after the N10 model replaced it overseas, eventually being discontinued in late 1980, with the N10 5-door hatchback replacing it in 1981.
In USA, only the coupe and wagon were offered, and only with the 1.4 litre engine. In Canada, the two-door sedan was also available.
It was a strong seller on the UK market, although it did not launch there until 1976, due to the popularity of the original Cherry model there, and helped the Datsun brand maintain strong sales figures.
Overview
Chassis Code F10
Manufacturer Nissan
Also called Datsun F-II, Datsun F10, Datsun 100A F-II, Datsun 120A F-II
Production 1974–1978
Assembly ????
Body and chassis
Body style
2-door sedan
4-door sedan
3-door station wagon
2-door coupe
Layout
Front-engine, Front-wheel-drive
Powertrain
Engine
988cc A10 I4 OHV (In Line 4 Cylinder)
1.2L A12 I4 OHV (In Line 4 Cylinder)
1.4L A14 I4 OHV (In Line 4 Cylinder)
Dimensions
Wheelbase
2,395 mm (94 in)
Length 3,825 mm (151 in)
Width 1,500 mm (59 in)
Height 1,375 mm (54 in)
Curb weight
755 kg (1,664 lb)