2009 Toyota Matrix vs. 2011 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2011 Smart ForTwo is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Toyota Matrix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Toyota Matrix would be higher. At 2,362 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Toyota Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Matrix (158 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 2011 Smart ForTwo. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Matrix should accelerate faster than 2011 Smart ForTwo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota Matrix weights approximately 510 kg more than 2011 Smart ForTwo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 Smart ForTwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Matrix, 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, 2009 Toyota Matrix (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Smart ForTwo. (92 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota Matrix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Smart ForTwo. 2009 Toyota Matrix has automatic transmission and 2011 Smart ForTwo has manual transmission. 2011 Smart ForTwo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Toyota Matrix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Toyota Matrix | 2011 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Toyota | Smart |
| Model | Matrix | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2362 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 2695 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1542 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 1867 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.3 L/100km | 5.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.4 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 33 L |
