1990 Lotus Elan vs. 2006 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2006 Smart ForFour is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2006 Smart ForFour. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2006 Smart ForFour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Lotus Elan weights approximately 42 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.
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, 1990 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Smart ForFour. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1990 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Smart ForFour. 2006 Smart ForFour has automatic transmission and 1990 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1990 Lotus Elan 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:
| 1990 Lotus Elan | 2006 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Lotus | Smart |
| Model | Elan | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2006 |
| 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 | 163 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 978 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 |
