1971 Peugeot 304 vs. 2006 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2006 Smart ForTwo is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Peugeot 304. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Peugeot 304 would be higher. At 1,288 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Peugeot 304 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Peugeot 304 (64 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2006 Smart ForTwo. (60 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Peugeot 304 should accelerate faster than 2006 Smart ForTwo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Peugeot 304 weights approximately 145 kg more than 2006 Smart ForTwo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Smart ForTwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Peugeot 304, 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, 2006 Smart ForTwo (95 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Peugeot 304. (94 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2006 Smart ForTwo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Peugeot 304. 2006 Smart ForTwo has automatic transmission and 1971 Peugeot 304 has manual transmission. 1971 Peugeot 304 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Smart ForTwo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Peugeot 304 | 2006 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Peugeot | Smart |
| Model | 304 | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1288 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 60 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 66.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67.6 mm | 67 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 2510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1520 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 1820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 33 L |
