1971 Nissan Skyline vs. 2001 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2001 Smart Roadster is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 1,989 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Nissan Skyline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Nissan Skyline (136 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2001 Smart Roadster. (81 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Nissan Skyline should accelerate faster than 2001 Smart Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Nissan Skyline weights approximately 255 kg more than 2001 Smart Roadster. 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, 1971 Nissan Skyline (180 Nm @ 5600 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Smart Roadster. (110 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1971 Nissan Skyline will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Smart Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Nissan Skyline | 2001 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Nissan | Smart |
| Model | Skyline | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5600 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2370 mm |
