1999 MCC Smart vs. 1997 Volkswagen Quantum
To start off, 1999 MCC Smart is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Quantum. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Quantum would be higher. At 1,982 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Quantum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Quantum (109 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1999 MCC Smart. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Quantum should accelerate faster than 1999 MCC Smart. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Quantum weights approximately 430 kg more than 1999 MCC Smart. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 MCC Smart 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 1999 MCC Smart. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Quantum, 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 Quantum (173 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 MCC Smart. (80 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Quantum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 MCC Smart. 1999 MCC Smart has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Quantum has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Quantum will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 MCC Smart will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 MCC Smart | 1997 Volkswagen Quantum | |
| Make | MCC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Smart | Quantum |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 599 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 63.5 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 63 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3230 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2560 mm |
