1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2009 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2009 Smart ForTwo is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Datsun 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Datsun 280 would be higher. At 2,751 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun 280 (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2009 Smart ForTwo. (83 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 2009 Smart ForTwo.
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, 1979 Datsun 280 (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Smart ForTwo. (121 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Smart ForTwo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2009 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Datsun | Smart |
| Model | 280 | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 81.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 145 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 2700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 1870 mm |
