2012 Smart ForTwo vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Smart ForTwo is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2012 Smart ForTwo. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra 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, 2006 Opel Astra, 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, 2006 Opel Astra (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Smart ForTwo. (125 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Smart ForTwo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Smart ForTwo | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Smart | Opel |
| Model | ForTwo | Astra |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1000 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | 5-speed automated manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
