1990 BMW 316 vs. 2001 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2001 Smart ForTwo is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW 316 (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2001 Smart ForTwo. (74 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 2001 Smart ForTwo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 316 weights approximately 260 kg more than 2001 Smart ForTwo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 316 | 2001 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | BMW | Smart |
| Model | 316 | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 2510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1520 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 1820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 33 L |
