1997 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2012 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2012 Smart ForTwo is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C (303 HP @ 5850 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 2012 Smart ForTwo. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2012 Smart ForTwo.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C (410 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 285 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Smart ForTwo. (125 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Smart ForTwo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz C | 2012 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Smart |
| Model | C | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 303 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5850 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
