1961 Austin 7 vs. 2006 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2006 Smart ForFour is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Austin 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Austin 7 would be higher. At 1,499 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Smart ForFour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Smart ForFour (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1961 Austin 7. (33 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Smart ForFour should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Smart ForFour weights approximately 368 kg more than 1961 Austin 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2006 Smart ForFour (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin 7. (60 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Smart ForFour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Austin 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Austin 7 | 2006 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Austin | Smart |
| Model | 7 | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 1499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 33 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 978 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 47 L |
