1966 Datsun 1000 vs. 2009 Smart ForTwo

To start off, 2009 Smart ForTwo is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Datsun 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Datsun 1000 would be higher. At 1,000 cc (3 cylinders), 2009 Smart ForTwo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Smart ForTwo (83 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1966 Datsun 1000. (61 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Smart ForTwo should accelerate faster than 1966 Datsun 1000.

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, 2009 Smart ForTwo (121 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Datsun 1000. (84 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Smart ForTwo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Datsun 1000.

Compare all specifications:

1966 Datsun 1000 2009 Smart ForTwo
Make Datsun Smart
Model 1000 ForTwo
Year Released 1966 2009
Engine Position Front Rear
Engine Size 988 cc 1000 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 3 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 61 HP 83 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5250 RPM
Torque 84 Nm 121 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3250 RPM
Engine Bore Size 73 mm 72 mm
Engine Stroke Size 59 mm 81.8 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 8.5:1 10.0:1
Top Speed 135 km/hour 145 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Vehicle Length 3820 mm 2700 mm
Vehicle Width 1450 mm 1550 mm
Vehicle Height 1350 mm 1570 mm
Wheelbase Size 2290 mm 1870 mm