2001 MCC Smart vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 MCC Smart. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 MCC Smart would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (102 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2001 MCC Smart. (59 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2001 MCC Smart. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 455 kg more than 2001 MCC Smart. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 MCC Smart. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 MCC Smart. (89 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 MCC Smart.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 MCC Smart | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | MCC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Smart | Golf |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 599 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 63.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 63 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 135 km/hour | 184 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 720 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2600 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1820 mm | 2590 mm |
