2008 Honda Jazz vs. 2012 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2012 Smart ForTwo is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Honda Jazz. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Honda Jazz would be higher. At 1,339 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Honda Jazz is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Honda Jazz (82 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2012 Smart ForTwo. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Honda Jazz 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, 2008 Honda Jazz, 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, 2012 Smart ForTwo (125 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Honda Jazz. (119 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Smart ForTwo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Honda Jazz.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Honda Jazz | 2012 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Honda | Smart |
| Model | Jazz | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1339 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 82 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 119 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
