1973 Datsun Laurel vs. 2002 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2002 Smart ForTwo is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Datsun Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Datsun Laurel would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Datsun Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Datsun Laurel (124 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2002 Smart ForTwo. (40 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Datsun Laurel should accelerate faster than 2002 Smart ForTwo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 960 kg more than 2002 Smart ForTwo. 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, 1973 Datsun Laurel (171 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Smart ForTwo. (100 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1973 Datsun Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Smart ForTwo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Datsun Laurel | 2002 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Datsun | Smart |
| Model | Laurel | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 40 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 135 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.9 seconds | 19.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 2510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 1820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 22 L |
