2009 Smart ForTwo vs. 1998 Acura EL
To start off, 2009 Smart ForTwo is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Acura EL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Acura EL would be higher. At 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Acura EL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Acura EL (127 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2009 Smart ForTwo. (83 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Acura EL should accelerate faster than 2009 Smart ForTwo.
Because 2009 Smart ForTwo 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 Smart ForTwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Acura EL, 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, 1998 Acura EL (145 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Smart ForTwo. (121 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1998 Acura EL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Smart ForTwo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Smart ForTwo | 1998 Acura EL | |
| Make | Smart | Acura |
| Model | ForTwo | EL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 999 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 2700 mm | 4478 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1704 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1394 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1870 mm | 2619 mm |
