2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2001 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Smart ForTwo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Smart ForTwo would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 419 more horse power than 2001 Smart ForTwo. (74 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 Smart ForTwo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1160 kg more than 2001 Smart ForTwo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2001 Smart ForTwo has manual transmission. 2001 Smart ForTwo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2001 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Smart |
| Model | SL | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 150 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.7 seconds | 12.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1980 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 2510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1520 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 1820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 33 L |
