1999 MCC Smart vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 5 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (100 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1999 MCC Smart. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1999 MCC Smart. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 656 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (250 Nm) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 MCC Smart. (80 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 MCC Smart.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 MCC Smart | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | MCC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Smart | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 599 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 63.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 63 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3230 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2520 mm |
