2008 BMW 523 vs. 2006 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2008 BMW 523 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Smart ForFour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Smart ForFour would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 175 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 523 weights approximately 190 kg more than 2006 Smart ForFour.
Because 2008 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 2008 BMW 523. 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, both vehicles can yield 230 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 523 | 2006 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | BMW | Smart |
| Model | 523 | ForFour |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 175 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.8 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |
