1996 BMW 523 vs. 2001 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2001 Smart ForTwo is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 523 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 523 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 2001 Smart ForTwo. (74 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2001 Smart ForTwo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 523 weights approximately 725 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:
| 1996 BMW 523 | 2001 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | BMW | Smart |
| Model | 523 | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 66.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 67 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 2510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1520 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 1820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 33 L |
