2004 Nissan Altima vs. 2002 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2004 Nissan Altima is newer by 2 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 2,489 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Nissan Altima (175 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 2002 Smart ForTwo. (40 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2002 Smart ForTwo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Nissan Altima weights approximately 563 kg more than 2002 Smart ForTwo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 Nissan Altima, 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 Nissan Altima (244 Nm) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Smart ForTwo. (100 Nm). This means 2004 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Smart ForTwo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Nissan Altima | 2002 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Nissan | Smart |
| Model | Altima | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2489 cc | 799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 40 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1378 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 2510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 1820 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 3.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 22 L |
