1997 Mitsubishi Lancer vs. 2013 Smart Fortwo
To start off, 2013 Smart Fortwo is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer would be higher. At 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2013 Smart Fortwo. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 2013 Smart Fortwo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 155 kg more than 2013 Smart Fortwo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 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 2013 Smart Fortwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer, 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, 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Smart Fortwo. (92 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Smart Fortwo. 2013 Smart Fortwo has automatic transmission and 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer has manual transmission. 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Smart Fortwo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer | 2013 Smart Fortwo | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Smart |
| Model | Lancer | Fortwo |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 2695 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1559 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1542 mm |
