1962 Lotus Elite vs. 2005 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2005 Smart ForFour is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,332 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Smart ForFour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Smart ForFour (94 HP) has 11 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Smart ForFour should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Smart ForFour weights approximately 310 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 Lotus Elite 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 1962 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Smart ForFour, 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, 2005 Smart ForFour (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2005 Smart ForFour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Elite | 2005 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Lotus | Smart |
| Model | Elite | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1215 cc | 1332 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 94 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.7 mm | 75.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 47 L |
