1978 Nissan Cherry vs. 2011 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2011 Smart ForTwo is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Nissan Cherry. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Nissan Cherry would be higher. At 1,170 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Nissan Cherry is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Smart ForTwo (70 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1978 Nissan Cherry. (51 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Smart ForTwo should accelerate faster than 1978 Nissan Cherry. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Nissan Cherry weights approximately 5 kg more than 2011 Smart ForTwo.
Because 2011 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 2011 Smart ForTwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Nissan Cherry, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Nissan Cherry | 2011 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Nissan | Smart |
| Model | Cherry | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1170 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 825 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 2695 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1542 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 1867 mm |
