1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 vs. 2004 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2004 Smart ForFour is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 would be higher. At 4,520 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 (225 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 2004 Smart ForFour. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 should accelerate faster than 2004 Smart ForFour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 weights approximately 767 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450. 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. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 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. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 | 2004 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Smart |
| Model | 450 | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4520 cc | 1499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 84.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1742 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2510 mm |
