2006 Smart ForFour vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2006 Smart ForFour is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,488 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z3 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 2006 Smart ForFour. (94 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Smart ForFour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW Z3 weights approximately 385 kg more than 2006 Smart ForFour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 BMW Z3 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 2002 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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. Let's talk about torque, 2002 BMW Z3 (237 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Smart ForFour. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Smart ForFour. 2002 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 2006 Smart ForFour has manual transmission. 2006 Smart ForFour will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Smart ForFour | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Smart | BMW |
| Model | ForFour | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1332 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.4 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3760 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 51 L |
