1988 Opel Corsa vs. 2009 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2009 Smart ForTwo is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Opel Corsa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Opel Corsa would be higher. At 999 cc (3 cylinders), 2009 Smart ForTwo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Smart ForTwo (83 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1988 Opel Corsa. (45 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Smart ForTwo should accelerate faster than 1988 Opel Corsa.
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, 1988 Opel Corsa, 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 Smart ForTwo (121 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Opel Corsa. (68 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 Smart ForTwo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Opel Corsa.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Opel Corsa | 2009 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Opel | Smart |
| Model | Corsa | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 993 cc | 999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 45 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 72.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 81.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 2700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 1870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 33 L |
