1967 Austin-Healey Sprite vs. 2000 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2000 Smart ForFour is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite would be higher. At 1,499 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Smart ForFour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Smart ForFour (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite. (64 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Smart ForFour should accelerate faster than 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Smart ForFour weights approximately 261 kg more than 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite 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 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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. 2000 Smart ForFour has automatic transmission and 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite has manual transmission. 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Smart ForFour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite | 2000 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Smart |
| Model | Sprite | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1967 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 1499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 714 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3490 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 47 L |
