2008 Smart ForTwo vs. 2012 Nissan Versa
To start off, 2012 Nissan Versa is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Smart ForTwo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Smart ForTwo would be higher. At 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Versa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Versa (122 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2008 Smart ForTwo. (98 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Versa should accelerate faster than 2008 Smart ForTwo.
Because 2008 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 2008 Smart ForTwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Versa, 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 Smart ForTwo (190 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Nissan Versa. (172 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 Smart ForTwo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Nissan Versa. 2008 Smart ForTwo has automatic transmission and 2012 Nissan Versa has manual transmission. 2012 Nissan Versa will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Smart ForTwo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Smart ForTwo | 2012 Nissan Versa | |
| Make | Smart | Nissan |
| Model | ForTwo | Versa |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 999 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 122 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 50 L |
