1974 Lotus Elite vs. 2005 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2005 Smart ForFour is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Lotus Elite is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lotus Elite (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2005 Smart ForFour. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 2005 Smart ForFour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Lotus Elite weights approximately 85 kg more than 2005 Smart ForFour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Lotus Elite 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 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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 Lotus Elite (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Smart ForFour. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1974 Lotus Elite will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Smart ForFour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lotus Elite | 2005 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Lotus | Smart |
| Model | Elite | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 47 L |
