1989 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2006 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2006 Smart ForFour is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 2006 Smart ForFour. (94 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2006 Smart ForFour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 720 kg more than 2006 Smart ForFour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Smart ForFour. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Smart ForFour. 2006 Smart ForFour has automatic transmission and 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Smart ForFour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2006 Smart ForFour | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Smart |
Model | SL | ForFour |
Year Released | 1989 | 2006 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2962 cc | 1332 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 94 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 267 Nm | 125 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88.6 mm | 75.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 75.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 970 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3760 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 47 L |