2001 Pontiac Grand Am 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 Pontiac Grand Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Pontiac Grand Am would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Grand Am (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2012 Smart ForTwo. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Grand Am 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 Pontiac Grand Am, 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 Pontiac Grand Am (278 Nm) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Smart ForTwo. (125 Nm). This means 2001 Pontiac Grand Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Smart ForTwo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Pontiac Grand Am | 2012 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Pontiac | Smart |
| Model | Grand Am | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
