1974 BMW 3 vs. 2006 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2006 Smart ForFour is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 BMW 3 (200 HP) has 137 more horse power than 2006 Smart ForFour. (63 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Smart ForFour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 3 weights approximately 467 kg more than 2006 Smart ForFour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 BMW 3 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 1974 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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. Let's talk about torque, 1974 BMW 3 (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Smart ForFour. (92 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1974 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Smart ForFour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 3 | 2006 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | BMW | Smart |
| Model | 3 | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1124 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 63 HP |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 84.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 158 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 15.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2510 mm |
