2002 Smart ForTwo vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Smart ForTwo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Smart ForTwo would be higher. At 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 2002 Smart ForTwo. (40 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Smart ForTwo.
Because 2002 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 2002 Smart ForTwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3, 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 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Smart ForTwo. (100 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Smart ForTwo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Smart ForTwo | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Smart | Mazda |
| Model | ForTwo | 3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 799 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 40 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 2510 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1820 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 22 L | 55 L |
