2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart vs. 2005 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 4 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 1,689 cc, 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart (94 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Polo. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart weights approximately 380 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 2005 Volkswagen Polo, 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 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Polo. (127 Nm). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Polo. 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart has automatic transmission and 2005 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 2005 Volkswagen Polo 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 | 2005 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | Smart | Polo |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Type | electric | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 127 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 | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3230 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 45 L |
