1997 Nissan Laurel vs. 2001 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2001 Smart ForTwo is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,998 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Nissan Laurel (153 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 2001 Smart ForTwo. (74 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Nissan Laurel should accelerate faster than 2001 Smart ForTwo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Nissan Laurel weights approximately 570 kg more than 2001 Smart ForTwo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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. 1997 Nissan Laurel has automatic transmission and 2001 Smart ForTwo has manual transmission. 2001 Smart ForTwo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Nissan Laurel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Nissan Laurel | 2001 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Nissan | Smart |
| Model | Laurel | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 2510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1520 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 1820 mm |
