1974 Honda Z vs. 1955 Hudson Metropolitan
To start off, 1974 Honda Z is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Hudson Metropolitan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Hudson Metropolitan would be higher. At 1,200 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Hudson Metropolitan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Hudson Metropolitan (41 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1974 Honda Z. (24 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1955 Hudson Metropolitan should accelerate faster than 1974 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Hudson Metropolitan weights approximately 300 kg more than 1974 Honda Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 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 1955 Hudson Metropolitan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 1955 Hudson Metropolitan (76 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Honda Z. (30 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1955 Hudson Metropolitan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Honda Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Honda Z | 1955 Hudson Metropolitan | |
| Make | Honda | Hudson |
| Model | Z | Metropolitan |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 356 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 41 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 30 Nm | 76 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 3800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2170 mm |
