1973 Honda Z vs. 1961 Hudson Metropolitan
To start off, 1973 Honda Z is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Hudson Metropolitan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Hudson Metropolitan would be higher. At 1,489 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 Hudson Metropolitan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Hudson Metropolitan (47 HP @ 4100 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1973 Honda Z. (32 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 Hudson Metropolitan should accelerate faster than 1973 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Hudson Metropolitan weights approximately 239 kg more than 1973 Honda Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Hudson Metropolitan is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1961 Hudson Metropolitan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 Honda Z, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1961 Hudson Metropolitan (101 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Honda Z. (43 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1961 Hudson Metropolitan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Honda Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Honda Z | 1961 Hudson Metropolitan | |
| Make | Honda | Hudson |
| Model | Z | Metropolitan |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 599 cc | 1489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 32 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 43 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 819 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3140 mm | 3800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1310 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2170 mm |
