2003 MCC Smart vs. 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma
To start off, 2003 MCC Smart is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma would be higher. At 1,834 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma (115 HP @ 5190 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2003 MCC Smart. (81 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma should accelerate faster than 2003 MCC Smart. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma weights approximately 430 kg more than 2003 MCC Smart. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 MCC Smart 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 2003 MCC Smart. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma, 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, 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 MCC Smart. (112 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 MCC Smart.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 MCC Smart | 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma | |
| Make | MCC | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Smart | Carisma |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 698 cc | 1834 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5190 RPM |
| Torque | 112 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3440 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1410 mm |
