2001 Citroen Xsara vs. 2012 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2012 Smart ForTwo is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Citroen Xsara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Citroen Xsara would be higher. At 1,527 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Citroen Xsara (89 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2012 Smart ForTwo. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Citroen Xsara 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, 2001 Citroen Xsara, 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, 2001 Citroen Xsara (140 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Smart ForTwo. (125 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2001 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Smart ForTwo. 2012 Smart ForTwo has automatic transmission and 2001 Citroen Xsara has manual transmission. 2001 Citroen Xsara 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:
| 2001 Citroen Xsara | 2012 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Citroen | Smart |
| Model | Xsara | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1527 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
