1985 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2011 Smart ForTwo

To start off, 2011 Smart ForTwo is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,779 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Volkswagen Jetta (109 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2011 Smart ForTwo. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 2011 Smart ForTwo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 106 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, 1985 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, 1985 Volkswagen Jetta (156 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Smart ForTwo. (92 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1985 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Smart ForTwo.

Compare all specifications:

1985 Volkswagen Jetta 2011 Smart ForTwo
Make Volkswagen Smart
Model Jetta ForTwo
Year Released 1985 2011
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Rear
Engine Size 1779 cc 1000 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 3 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 109 HP 70 HP
Engine RPM 5400 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 156 Nm 92 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 926 kg 820 kg
Vehicle Length 4320 mm 2695 mm
Vehicle Width 1670 mm 1560 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1542 mm
Wheelbase Size 2480 mm 1867 mm