1978 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2010 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2010 Smart ForTwo is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,471 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Smart ForTwo (70 HP) has 21 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Smart ForTwo should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 10 kg more than 2010 Smart ForTwo.
Because 2010 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 2010 Smart ForTwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2010 Smart ForTwo (92 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (81 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Smart ForTwo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Volkswagen Golf | 2010 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Smart |
| Model | Golf | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1471 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 70 HP |
| Torque | 81 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 2695 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1542 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 1867 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 33 L |
