1978 Mini MK IV vs. 2006 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2006 Smart ForTwo is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mini MK IV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mini MK IV would be higher. At 848 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mini MK IV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Smart ForTwo (60 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1978 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Smart ForTwo should accelerate faster than 1978 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Smart ForTwo weights approximately 205 kg more than 1978 Mini MK IV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Smart ForTwo 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 2006 Smart ForTwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Mini MK IV, 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, 2006 Smart ForTwo (95 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2006 Smart ForTwo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mini MK IV. 2006 Smart ForTwo has automatic transmission and 1978 Mini MK IV has manual transmission. 1978 Mini MK IV will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Smart ForTwo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mini MK IV | 2006 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Mini | Smart |
| Model | MK IV | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 60 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 2510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 1820 mm |
