1981 Mini MK IV vs. 2011 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2011 Smart ForTwo is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mini MK IV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mini MK IV 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 1981 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Smart ForTwo should accelerate faster than 1981 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Smart ForTwo weights approximately 230 kg more than 1981 Mini MK IV. 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, 1981 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, 2011 Smart ForTwo (92 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2011 Smart ForTwo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mini MK IV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mini MK IV | 2011 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Mini | Smart |
| Model | MK IV | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 2695 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1542 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 1867 mm |
