1978 Renault 4 vs. 2011 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2011 Smart ForTwo is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 4 would be higher. At 1,000 cc (3 cylinders), 2011 Smart ForTwo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Smart ForTwo (70 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1978 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Smart ForTwo should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Smart ForTwo weights approximately 124 kg more than 1978 Renault 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 Smart ForTwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Renault 4, 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, 2011 Smart ForTwo (92 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 4. (62 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Smart ForTwo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Renault 4 | 2011 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Renault | Smart |
| Model | 4 | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 956 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 62 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 696 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 2695 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1542 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 1867 mm |
