2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart vs. 2013 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 12 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Passat (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart. (94 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Passat 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 14 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Passat.
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, 2013 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2013 Volkswagen Passat (240 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart. (185 Nm). This means 2013 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart | 2013 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | Smart | Passat |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Type | electric | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1461 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3230 mm | 4868 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1487 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2803 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 70 L |
