2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2000 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Smart ForTwo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Smart ForTwo would be higher. At 2,261 cc, 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (257 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 217 more horse power than 2000 Smart ForTwo. (40 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2000 Smart ForTwo.
Because 2000 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 2000 Smart ForTwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3, 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 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Smart ForTwo. (100 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Smart ForTwo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2000 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Mazda | Smart |
| Model | 3 | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 799 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 257 HP | 40 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 135 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.1 seconds | 19.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 2510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 1820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 22 L |
