1996 Mitsubishi Carisma vs. 2011 Smart ForTwo

To start off, 2011 Smart ForTwo is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma would be higher. At 1,870 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma (89 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2011 Smart ForTwo. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma should accelerate faster than 2011 Smart ForTwo.

Because 2011 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 2011 Smart ForTwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma, 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, 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma (176 Nm @ 2250 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Smart ForTwo. (92 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Smart ForTwo.

Compare all specifications:

1996 Mitsubishi Carisma 2011 Smart ForTwo
Make Mitsubishi Smart
Model Carisma ForTwo
Year Released 1996 2011
Engine Position Front Rear
Engine Size 1870 cc 1000 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 3 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 89 HP 70 HP
Engine RPM 4250 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 176 Nm 92 Nm
Torque RPM 2250 RPM 4500 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Vehicle Length 4440 mm 2695 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1560 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1542 mm