2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart. (94 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart weights approximately 139 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart. (185 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart. 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart has automatic transmission and 2004 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2004 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | Smart | Golf |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Type | electric | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1336 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3230 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 55 L |
