2003 Opel Signum 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 Opel Signum. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Opel Signum would be higher. At 2,171 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Signum (152 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2012 Smart ForTwo. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Signum 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 Opel Signum, 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, 2003 Opel Signum (220 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Smart ForTwo. (125 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Smart ForTwo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Signum | 2012 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Opel | Smart |
| Model | Signum | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 152 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
