1989 Ford Tempo vs. 2004 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2004 Smart ForTwo is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford Tempo (96 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2004 Smart ForTwo. (60 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Tempo should accelerate faster than 2004 Smart ForTwo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Tempo weights approximately 335 kg more than 2004 Smart ForTwo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Smart ForTwo 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 2004 Smart ForTwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Ford Tempo, 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, 1989 Ford Tempo (175 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Smart ForTwo. (95 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Tempo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Smart ForTwo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Tempo | 2004 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Ford | Smart |
| Model | Tempo | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 697 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 60 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 2510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 1820 mm |
