1999 MCC Smart vs. 2003 Volkswagen Lupo
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Lupo is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 MCC Smart. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 MCC Smart would be higher. At 1,093 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Lupo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 MCC Smart (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Lupo. (47 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 MCC Smart should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Lupo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Lupo weights approximately 272 kg more than 1999 MCC Smart.
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, 2003 Volkswagen Lupo, 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, 2003 Volkswagen Lupo (86 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 MCC Smart. (80 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Lupo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 MCC Smart. 1999 MCC Smart has automatic transmission and 2003 Volkswagen Lupo has manual transmission. 2003 Volkswagen Lupo 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 | 2003 Volkswagen Lupo | |
| Make | MCC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Smart | Lupo |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 599 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 63.5 mm | 67.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 63 mm | 70.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 972 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3230 mm | 3550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2330 mm |
