2004 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2012 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2012 Smart ForTwo is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider (237 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 2012 Smart ForTwo. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider (300 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Smart ForTwo. (125 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Smart ForTwo. 2012 Smart ForTwo has automatic transmission and 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider has manual transmission. 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider 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:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2012 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Smart |
| Model | Spider | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 237 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
