1987 BMW 324 vs. 2004 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2004 Smart ForFour is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW 324. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW 324 would be higher. At 2,443 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 BMW 324 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 BMW 324 (113 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2004 Smart ForFour. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 BMW 324 should accelerate faster than 2004 Smart ForFour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 BMW 324 weights approximately 285 kg more than 2004 Smart ForFour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 BMW 324 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 1987 BMW 324. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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. 2004 Smart ForFour has automatic transmission and 1987 BMW 324 has manual transmission. 1987 BMW 324 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Smart ForFour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 BMW 324 | 2004 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | BMW | Smart |
| Model | 324 | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2443 cc | 1499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 84.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.7 L/100km | 6.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 47 L |
