2006 Mini Cooper 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 Mini Cooper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mini Cooper would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mini Cooper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mini Cooper (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 2012 Smart ForTwo. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mini Cooper 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 Mini Cooper, 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 Mini Cooper (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Smart ForTwo. (125 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Smart ForTwo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mini Cooper | 2012 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Mini | Smart |
| Model | Cooper | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
