1981 Nissan Stanza vs. 2006 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2006 Smart Roadster is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Stanza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Stanza would be higher. At 1,952 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Stanza is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Smart Roadster (100 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Stanza. (87 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Smart Roadster should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Stanza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Nissan Stanza weights approximately 165 kg more than 2006 Smart Roadster.
Because 2006 Smart Roadster 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 2006 Smart Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Stanza, 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, 1981 Nissan Stanza (151 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Smart Roadster. (130 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1981 Nissan Stanza will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Smart Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Nissan Stanza | 2006 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Nissan | Smart |
| Model | Stanza | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1952 cc | 696 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2370 mm |
