2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Santana 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) has 35 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart weights approximately 510 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz 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 Mercedes-Benz Smart. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Santana, 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart (185 Nm) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (100 Nm). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart has automatic transmission and 1981 Volkswagen Santana has manual transmission. 1981 Volkswagen Santana will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | Smart | Santana |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Type | electric | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3230 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 60 L |
