2002 Nissan Maxima vs. 2012 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2012 Smart ForTwo is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 1,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Nissan Maxima (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2012 Smart ForTwo. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Maxima 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, 2002 Nissan Maxima, 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, 2002 Nissan Maxima (181 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Smart ForTwo. (125 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Smart ForTwo. 2012 Smart ForTwo has automatic transmission and 2002 Nissan Maxima has manual transmission. 2002 Nissan Maxima 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:
| 2002 Nissan Maxima | 2012 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Nissan | Smart |
| Model | Maxima | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 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 | 4 doors | 2 doors |
