2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2001 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Smart ForFour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Smart ForFour would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (120 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2001 Smart ForFour. (94 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2001 Smart ForFour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 535 kg more than 2001 Smart ForFour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz C 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 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (270 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Smart ForFour. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Smart ForFour. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2001 Smart ForFour has manual transmission. 2001 Smart ForFour will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 2001 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Smart |
| Model | C | ForFour |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1332 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.7 seconds | 10.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.1 L/100km | 6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 47 L |
