1971 Oldsmobile 442 vs. 2004 Smart ForFour

To start off, 2004 Smart ForFour is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Oldsmobile 442. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Oldsmobile 442 would be higher. At 7,467 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Oldsmobile 442 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Oldsmobile 442 (260 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 2004 Smart ForFour. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Oldsmobile 442 should accelerate faster than 2004 Smart ForFour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Oldsmobile 442 weights approximately 755 kg more than 2004 Smart ForFour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1971 Oldsmobile 442 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 1971 Oldsmobile 442. 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. 1971 Oldsmobile 442 has automatic transmission and 2004 Smart ForFour has manual transmission. 2004 Smart ForFour will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Oldsmobile 442 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1971 Oldsmobile 442 2004 Smart ForFour
Make Oldsmobile Smart
Model 442 ForFour
Year Released 1971 2004
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 7467 cc 1499 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 260 HP 108 HP
Engine RPM 4400 RPM 6000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 104.9 mm 75.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 108 mm 84.8 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 8.5:1 10.5:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1730 kg 975 kg
Vehicle Length 5180 mm 3760 mm
Vehicle Width 1960 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2850 mm 2510 mm