2004 Smart ForFour vs. 2009 BMW 523
To start off, 2009 BMW 523 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Smart ForFour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Smart ForFour would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2004 Smart ForFour. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2004 Smart ForFour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 523 weights approximately 590 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 2009 BMW 523 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 2009 BMW 523. 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. 2009 BMW 523 has automatic transmission and 2004 Smart ForFour has manual transmission. 2004 Smart ForFour will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 523 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Smart ForFour | 2009 BMW 523 | |
| Make | Smart | BMW |
| Model | ForFour | 523 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1499 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.5 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.8 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.8 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3760 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.1 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 70 L |
