1989 Lotus Elan vs. 2005 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2005 Smart ForFour is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Elan (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2005 Smart ForFour. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2005 Smart ForFour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Lotus Elan weights approximately 45 kg more than 2005 Smart ForFour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Lotus Elan (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Smart ForFour. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Smart ForFour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Lotus Elan | 2005 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Lotus | Smart |
| Model | Elan | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 47 L |
