1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (110 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2012 Smart ForTwo. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata (241 Nm) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Smart ForTwo. (125 Nm). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2012 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Mazda | Smart |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
