2011 Opel Meriva vs. 2012 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2012 Smart ForTwo is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Opel Meriva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Opel Meriva would be higher. At 1,248 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Opel Meriva (94 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2012 Smart ForTwo. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Opel Meriva 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, 2011 Opel Meriva, 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, 2011 Opel Meriva (180 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Smart ForTwo. (125 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Smart ForTwo. 2012 Smart ForTwo has automatic transmission and 2011 Opel Meriva has manual transmission. 2011 Opel Meriva will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Smart ForTwo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Opel Meriva | 2012 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Opel | Smart |
| Model | Meriva | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1248 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
