1990 Mini MK V vs. 2000 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2000 Smart ForTwo is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mini MK V. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mini MK V would be higher. At 997 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Mini MK V is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Smart ForTwo (74 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1990 Mini MK V. (41 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Smart ForTwo should accelerate faster than 1990 Mini MK V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Smart ForTwo weights approximately 195 kg more than 1990 Mini MK V. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 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 2000 Smart ForTwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Mini MK V, 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, 2000 Smart ForTwo (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mini MK V. (70 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2000 Smart ForTwo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mini MK V.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mini MK V | 2000 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Mini | Smart |
| Model | MK V | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 70 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 625 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 2510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 1820 mm |
