1961 Mini MK I vs. 2001 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2001 Smart ForFour is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Mini MK I. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Mini MK I would be higher. At 1,332 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Smart ForFour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Smart ForFour (94 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1961 Mini MK I. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Smart ForFour should accelerate faster than 1961 Mini MK I. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Smart ForFour weights approximately 355 kg more than 1961 Mini MK I. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear 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, 2001 Smart ForFour (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Mini MK I. (60 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2001 Smart ForFour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Mini MK I. 2001 Smart ForFour has automatic transmission and 1961 Mini MK I has manual transmission. 1961 Mini MK I will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Smart ForFour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Mini MK I | 2001 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Mini | Smart |
| Model | MK I | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1332 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 615 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2510 mm |
