1998 GMC Safari vs. 2001 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2001 Smart ForFour is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 GMC Safari. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 GMC Safari would be higher. At 4,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 GMC Safari is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 GMC Safari (187 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 2001 Smart ForFour. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 GMC Safari should accelerate faster than 2001 Smart ForFour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 GMC Safari weights approximately 980 kg more than 2001 Smart ForFour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 GMC Safari 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 GMC Safari. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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. 1998 GMC Safari has automatic transmission and 2001 Smart ForFour has manual transmission. 2001 Smart ForFour will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 GMC Safari will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 GMC Safari | 2001 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | GMC | Smart |
| Model | Safari | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Van | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 1499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 102 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 84.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 98 L | 47 L |
