1961 NSU Prinz IV vs. 2006 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2006 Smart ForTwo is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 NSU Prinz IV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 NSU Prinz IV would be higher. At 698 cc (3 cylinders), 2006 Smart ForTwo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Smart ForTwo (60 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1961 NSU Prinz IV. (30 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Smart ForTwo should accelerate faster than 1961 NSU Prinz IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Smart ForTwo weights approximately 250 kg more than 1961 NSU Prinz IV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Smart ForTwo (95 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 NSU Prinz IV. (44 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2006 Smart ForTwo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 NSU Prinz IV. 2006 Smart ForTwo has automatic transmission and 1961 NSU Prinz IV has manual transmission. 1961 NSU Prinz IV will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Smart ForTwo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1961 NSU Prinz IV | 2006 Smart ForTwo | |
Make | NSU | Smart |
Model | Prinz IV | ForTwo |
Year Released | 1961 | 2006 |
Engine Position | Rear | Rear |
Engine Size | 598 cc | 698 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 30 HP | 60 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 44 Nm | 95 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 66.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 67 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 565 kg | 815 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 2510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1540 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2050 mm | 1820 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 37 L | 33 L |