1980 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2011 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2011 Smart ForTwo is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,272 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Smart ForTwo (70 HP) has 11 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Smart ForTwo should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 5 kg more than 2011 Smart ForTwo.
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, 1980 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 1980 Volkswagen Jetta (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Smart ForTwo. (92 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1980 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Smart ForTwo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | 2011 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Smart |
| Model | Jetta | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 70 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 825 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 2695 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1542 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 1867 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 33 L |
