1996 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2005 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2005 Smart ForFour is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2005 Smart ForFour. (94 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2005 Smart ForFour.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (165 Nm) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Smart ForFour. (125 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Smart ForFour. 2005 Smart ForFour has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Smart ForFour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Golf | 2005 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Smart |
| Model | Golf | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1332 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.7 mm | 75.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2510 mm |
