1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2005 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2005 Smart ForFour is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,998 cc (5 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (114 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2005 Smart ForFour. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2005 Smart ForFour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1250 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (231 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Smart ForFour. (101 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Smart ForFour.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Mercedes-Benz S | 2005 Smart ForFour | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Smart |
Model | S | ForFour |
Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2998 cc | 1124 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 231 Nm | 101 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2215 kg | 965 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 3760 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2510 mm |