1998 BMW 323 vs. 2004 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2004 Smart ForFour is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 323 (170 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2004 Smart ForFour. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2004 Smart ForFour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 572 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 1998 BMW 323 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 1998 BMW 323. 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 1998 BMW 323 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 323 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:
1998 BMW 323 | 2004 Smart ForFour | |
Make | BMW | Smart |
Model | 323 | ForFour |
Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1499 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 75.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 74.9 mm | 84.8 mm |
Top Speed | 231 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1547 kg | 975 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3760 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |