2001 Smart ForTwo vs. 2012 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2012 Opel Meriva 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 1,398 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Meriva (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2001 Smart ForTwo. (40 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 2001 Smart ForTwo.
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 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, 2012 Opel Meriva (130 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Smart ForTwo. (100 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Smart ForTwo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Smart ForTwo | 2012 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Smart | Opel |
| Model | ForTwo | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 798 cc | 1398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 40 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
