2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart vs. 2008 Renault Clio
To start off, 2008 Renault Clio is newer by 7 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Renault Clio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Renault Clio (194 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart. (94 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Renault Clio 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 140 kg more than 2008 Renault Clio.
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, 2008 Renault Clio, 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 Renault Clio (215 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart. (185 Nm). This means 2008 Renault Clio 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 2008 Renault Clio has manual transmission. 2008 Renault Clio 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 | 2008 Renault Clio | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | Smart | Clio |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Type | electric | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 194 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 7250 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 215 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 | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3230 mm | 3780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 55 L |
