1996 BMW 545 vs. 2004 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2004 Smart ForFour is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 545. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 545 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 545 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 545 (282 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 2004 Smart ForFour. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 545 should accelerate faster than 2004 Smart ForFour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 545 weights approximately 675 kg more than 2004 Smart ForFour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 545 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 1996 BMW 545. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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. 2004 Smart ForFour has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 545 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 545 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Smart ForFour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 545 | 2004 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | BMW | Smart |
| Model | 545 | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.1 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 84.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 47 L |
