1997 Nissan Maxima vs. 2013 Smart Fortwo
To start off, 2013 Smart Fortwo is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Nissan Maxima (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2013 Smart Fortwo. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2013 Smart Fortwo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 505 kg more than 2013 Smart Fortwo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 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 2013 Smart Fortwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Nissan Maxima, 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, 1997 Nissan Maxima (177 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Smart Fortwo. (92 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Smart Fortwo. 2013 Smart Fortwo has automatic transmission and 1997 Nissan Maxima has manual transmission. 1997 Nissan Maxima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Smart Fortwo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Nissan Maxima | 2013 Smart Fortwo | |
| Make | Nissan | Smart |
| Model | Maxima | Fortwo |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 2695 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1559 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1542 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 1867 mm |
