2007 Lotus Elise vs. 2004 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2007 Lotus Elise is newer by 3 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2004 Smart ForFour. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 2004 Smart ForFour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Smart ForFour weights approximately 190 kg more than 2007 Lotus Elise.
Because 2007 Lotus Elise 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 2007 Lotus Elise. 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. 2004 Smart ForFour has automatic transmission and 2007 Lotus Elise has manual transmission. 2007 Lotus Elise will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Smart ForFour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Lotus Elise | 2004 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Lotus | Smart |
| Model | Elise | ForFour |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 197 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.9 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.4 L/100km | 6.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 32 L | 47 L |
