1988 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2001 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2001 Smart ForFour is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,599 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S (165 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2001 Smart ForFour. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2001 Smart ForFour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 545 kg more than 2001 Smart ForFour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Mercedes-Benz S 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 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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. 2001 Smart ForFour has automatic transmission and 1988 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Smart ForFour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mercedes-Benz S | 2001 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Smart |
| Model | S | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2599 cc | 1499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.9 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 84.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
