1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2013 Smart Fortwo
To start off, 2013 Smart Fortwo is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 340 kg more than 2013 Smart Fortwo.
Because 2013 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 2013 Smart Fortwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Smart Fortwo. (92 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Smart Fortwo. 2013 Smart Fortwo has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Smart Fortwo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Volkswagen Golf | 2013 Smart Fortwo | |
Make | Volkswagen | Smart |
Model | Golf | Fortwo |
Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 73 HP | 0 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 126 Nm | 92 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 81 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 2695 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1559 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1542 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 1867 mm |