My truck was in great shape but it just did not feel like the datsun in my opinion,as for pain it will be easier to get parts and the cab is very very slightly bigger,and as for 5 speed it wont be hard for you to put one in your truck,also im sorry but no other truck has the character like a 521 small yes hard to find parts yes but once you get it dialed in you are balling,they make the 620 look like shit if you ask me there is less of them and look like a 510 from the front and who does not like a 510.. :D