2009 Nissan Altima vs. 2008 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2009 Nissan Altima is newer by 1 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 2,501 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Altima (156 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2008 Smart ForTwo. (98 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima 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, 2009 Nissan Altima, 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 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Nissan Altima. (162 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 Smart ForTwo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Altima | 2008 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Nissan | Smart |
| Model | Altima | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 98 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 2730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 1870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 52 L |
