2001 Smart ForTwo vs. 2012 Hyundai Elantra
To start off, 2012 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Smart ForTwo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Smart ForTwo would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Hyundai Elantra (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2001 Smart ForTwo. (74 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 2001 Smart ForTwo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 512 kg more than 2001 Smart ForTwo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Smart ForTwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai Elantra, 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. 2012 Hyundai Elantra has automatic transmission and 2001 Smart ForTwo has manual transmission. 2001 Smart ForTwo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Hyundai Elantra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Smart ForTwo | 2012 Hyundai Elantra | |
| Make | Smart | Hyundai |
| Model | ForTwo | Elantra |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 698 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2510 mm | 4486 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1519 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1820 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 33 L | 53 L |
