1999 BMW 318 vs. 2012 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2012 Smart ForTwo is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 318 (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2012 Smart ForTwo. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 318 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, 1999 BMW 318 (180 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Smart ForTwo. (125 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Smart ForTwo. 2012 Smart ForTwo has automatic transmission and 1999 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1999 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Smart ForTwo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 318 | 2012 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | BMW | Smart |
| Model | 318 | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
