2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart vs. 1955 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,689 cc, 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart (94 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart should accelerate faster than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart weights approximately 735 kg more than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart (185 Nm) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (89 Nm). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart | 1955 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | Smart | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1955 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Type | electric | boxer |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3230 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2410 mm |
