1997 Citroen AX vs. 2003 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2003 Smart ForTwo is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Citroen AX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Citroen AX would be higher. At 954 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Citroen AX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Smart ForTwo (60 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1997 Citroen AX. (48 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Smart ForTwo should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen AX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Smart ForTwo weights approximately 147 kg more than 1997 Citroen AX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Smart ForTwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Citroen AX, 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, 2003 Smart ForTwo (96 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen AX. (74 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2003 Smart ForTwo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen AX.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen AX | 2003 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Citroen | Smart |
| Model | AX | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 954 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 48 HP | 60 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 74 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.1 mm | 66.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 62 mm | 67 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 668 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3510 mm | 2510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 1820 mm |
