1998 Alfa Romeo Dardo vs. 2008 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2008 Smart ForTwo is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Alfa Romeo Dardo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Alfa Romeo Dardo would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Alfa Romeo Dardo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Alfa Romeo Dardo (187 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 2008 Smart ForTwo. (98 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo Dardo should accelerate faster than 2008 Smart ForTwo.
Because 2008 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 2008 Smart ForTwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo Dardo, 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, 1998 Alfa Romeo Dardo (223 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Smart ForTwo. (190 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Alfa Romeo Dardo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Smart ForTwo. 2008 Smart ForTwo has automatic transmission and 1998 Alfa Romeo Dardo has manual transmission. 1998 Alfa Romeo Dardo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Smart ForTwo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alfa Romeo Dardo | 2008 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Smart |
| Model | Dardo | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 98 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 2730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 1870 mm |
