2003 Daihatsu Copen vs. 2012 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2012 Smart ForTwo is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Daihatsu Copen. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Daihatsu Copen would be higher. At 1,298 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Daihatsu Copen is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Daihatsu Copen (86 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2012 Smart ForTwo. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Daihatsu Copen 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, 2003 Daihatsu Copen, 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 Smart ForTwo (125 Nm) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Daihatsu Copen. (120 Nm). This means 2012 Smart ForTwo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Daihatsu Copen.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Daihatsu Copen | 2012 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Smart |
| Model | Copen | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
