1989 Nissan Micra vs. 2004 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2004 Smart ForTwo is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Nissan Micra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Nissan Micra would be higher. At 988 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Nissan Micra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Smart ForTwo (60 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1989 Nissan Micra. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Smart ForTwo should accelerate faster than 1989 Nissan Micra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Smart ForTwo weights approximately 150 kg more than 1989 Nissan Micra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Smart ForTwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Nissan Micra, 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, 2004 Smart ForTwo (95 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Nissan Micra. (73 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2004 Smart ForTwo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Nissan Micra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Nissan Micra | 2004 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Nissan | Smart |
| Model | Micra | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 988 cc | 697 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 60 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 73 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 665 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 2510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 1820 mm |
