1999 Opel Meriva 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 Opel Meriva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Opel Meriva would be higher. At 1,686 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Opel Meriva (100 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2012 Smart ForTwo. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 2012 Smart ForTwo.
Because 2012 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 2012 Smart ForTwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Opel Meriva, 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, 1999 Opel Meriva (223 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Smart ForTwo. (125 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1999 Opel Meriva 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 Opel Meriva has manual transmission. 1999 Opel Meriva 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 Opel Meriva | 2012 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Opel | Smart |
| Model | Meriva | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
