1962 Simca Ariane vs. 2001 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2001 Smart ForFour is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Simca Ariane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Simca Ariane 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 35 more horse power than 1962 Simca Ariane. (59 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Smart ForFour should accelerate faster than 1962 Simca Ariane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 Simca Ariane weights approximately 130 kg more than 2001 Smart ForFour.
Because 1962 Simca Ariane 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 Simca Ariane. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Smart ForFour (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Simca Ariane. (91 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2001 Smart ForFour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Simca Ariane.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Simca Ariane | 2001 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Simca | Smart |
| Model | Ariane | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1290 cc | 1332 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 47 L |
