1974 Honda Z vs. 2002 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2002 Smart ForTwo is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Honda Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Honda Z would be higher. At 799 cc (3 cylinders), 2002 Smart ForTwo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Smart ForTwo (40 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1974 Honda Z. (24 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Smart ForTwo should accelerate faster than 1974 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Smart ForTwo weights approximately 305 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 2002 Smart ForTwo 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 2002 Smart ForTwo. 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, 2002 Smart ForTwo (100 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Honda Z. (30 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Smart ForTwo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Honda Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Honda Z | 2002 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Honda | Smart |
| Model | Z | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 356 cc | 799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 40 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 30 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 2510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 1820 mm |
