1963 Opel Rekord vs. 2004 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2004 Smart ForFour is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 1,487 cc (4 cylinders), 1963 Opel Rekord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Smart ForFour (94 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1963 Opel Rekord. (53 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Smart ForFour should accelerate faster than 1963 Opel Rekord.
Because 1963 Opel Rekord 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 1963 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Smart ForFour (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Opel Rekord. (108 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2004 Smart ForFour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Opel Rekord | 2004 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Opel | Smart |
| Model | Rekord | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1963 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1487 cc | 1332 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2510 mm |
