2008 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2006 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Smart ForTwo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Smart ForTwo would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 600 kg more than 2006 Smart ForTwo.
Because 2006 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 2006 Smart ForTwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider (270 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Smart ForTwo. (95 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Smart ForTwo. 2006 Smart ForTwo has automatic transmission and 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider has manual transmission. 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Smart ForTwo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2006 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Smart |
| Model | Spider | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 60 HP |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 66.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.6 mm | 67 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 2510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 1820 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.8 L/100km | 4.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 33 L |
