1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 2006 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2006 Smart ForFour is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 (134 HP) has 40 more horse power than 2006 Smart ForFour. (94 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 2006 Smart ForFour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 518 kg more than 2006 Smart ForFour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Smart ForFour. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Smart ForFour. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 has automatic transmission and 2006 Smart ForFour has manual transmission. 2006 Smart ForFour will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 2006 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Smart |
| Model | 230 | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 1332 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 94 HP |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 75.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1990 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9 L/100km | 5.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 52 L |
