1988 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2001 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2001 Smart ForFour is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,763 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Volkswagen Golf (157 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2001 Smart ForFour. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2001 Smart ForFour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 220 kg more than 2001 Smart ForFour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Smart ForFour. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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. 2001 Smart ForFour has automatic transmission and 1988 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1988 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Smart ForFour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Volkswagen Golf | 2001 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Smart |
| Model | Golf | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1763 cc | 1499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.6 seconds | 10.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 47 L |
