2004 Smart ForFour vs. 2011 Lexus IS
To start off, 2011 Lexus IS is newer by 7 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 2,231 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus IS (150 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2004 Smart ForFour. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2004 Smart ForFour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Lexus IS weights approximately 570 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 2011 Lexus IS 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 2011 Lexus IS. 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. 2011 Lexus IS 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. 2011 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Smart ForFour | 2011 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Smart | Lexus |
| Model | ForFour | IS |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1499 cc | 2231 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.8 seconds | 10.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3760 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 65 L |
