2006 Smart ForFour vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Smart ForFour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Smart ForFour would be higher. At 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (148 HP) has 85 more horse power than 2006 Smart ForFour. (63 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Smart ForFour.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (360 Nm) has 268 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Smart ForFour. (92 Nm). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Smart ForFour. 2006 Smart ForFour has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Smart ForFour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Smart ForFour | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Smart | Mazda |
| Model | ForFour | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1099 cc | 2184 cc |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3760 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 55 L |
