2006 Mazda 6 vs. 2012 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2012 Smart ForTwo is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 6 (134 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2012 Smart ForTwo. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 6 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, 2006 Mazda 6, 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, 2006 Mazda 6 (310 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Smart ForTwo. (125 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Smart ForTwo. 2012 Smart ForTwo has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda 6 has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda 6 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:
| 2006 Mazda 6 | 2012 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Mazda | Smart |
| Model | 6 | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
