1988 Buick Electra vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart

To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Buick Electra would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Buick Electra (163 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart. (94 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Buick Electra should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Buick Electra weights approximately 100 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Buick Electra, 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 Buick Electra (285 Nm) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart. (185 Nm). This means 1988 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart.

Compare all specifications:

1988 Buick Electra 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart
Make Buick Mercedes-Benz
Model Electra Smart
Year Released 1988 2001
Engine Position Front Rear
Engine Size 3791 cc 1689 cc
Engine Type V electric
Horse Power 163 HP 94 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 4200 RPM
Torque 285 Nm 185 Nm
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Vehicle Weight 1575 kg 1475 kg
Vehicle Length 4990 mm 3230 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1170 mm
Wheelbase Size 2820 mm 2720 mm


 

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