1964 Mini MK I vs. 2001 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2001 Smart ForTwo is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Mini MK I. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Mini MK I would be higher. At 848 cc (4 cylinders), 1964 Mini MK I is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Smart ForTwo (40 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1964 Mini MK I. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Smart ForTwo should accelerate faster than 1964 Mini MK I. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Smart ForTwo weights approximately 197 kg more than 1964 Mini MK I. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Smart ForTwo 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 2001 Smart ForTwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1964 Mini MK I, 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 ForTwo (100 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Mini MK I. (60 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2001 Smart ForTwo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Mini MK I.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Mini MK I | 2001 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Mini | Smart |
| Model | MK I | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1964 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 40 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 618 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 2510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 1820 mm |
