1976 Mini MK III vs. 2005 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2005 Smart ForFour is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mini MK III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mini MK III would be higher. At 1,124 cc (3 cylinders), 2005 Smart ForFour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Smart ForFour (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1976 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Smart ForFour should accelerate faster than 1976 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Smart ForFour weights approximately 355 kg more than 1976 Mini MK III. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2005 Smart ForFour (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2005 Smart ForFour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mini MK III.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mini MK III | 2005 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Mini | Smart |
| Model | MK III | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 1124 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2510 mm |
