2009 BMW 320 vs. 2001 Smart ForFour

To start off, 2009 BMW 320 is newer by 8 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 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2001 Smart ForFour. (94 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2001 Smart ForFour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 320 weights approximately 520 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 2009 BMW 320 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 2009 BMW 320. 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, 2009 BMW 320 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Smart ForFour. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Smart ForFour.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 320 2001 Smart ForFour
Make BMW Smart
Model 320 ForFour
Year Released 2009 2001
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1993 cc 1332 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 148 HP 94 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 330 Nm 125 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 17.0:1 10.5:1
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline - Premium
Top Speed 221 km/hour 180 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 8.8 seconds 11.1 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1490 kg 970 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 3760 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2510 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 5.8 L/100km 5.8 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 47 L