1988 BMW 524 vs. 2006 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2006 Smart ForFour is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 524. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 524 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 524 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 524 (113 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2006 Smart ForFour. (75 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 524 should accelerate faster than 2006 Smart ForFour.
Because 1988 BMW 524 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 1988 BMW 524. 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, 1988 BMW 524 (210 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Smart ForFour. (136 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 524 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Smart ForFour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 524 | 2006 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | BMW | Smart |
| Model | 524 | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 1123 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2510 mm |
