2001 Smart ForTwo vs. 1997 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2001 Smart ForTwo is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,043 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Polo (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2001 Smart ForTwo. (40 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 2001 Smart ForTwo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 140 kg more than 2001 Smart ForTwo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Smart ForTwo 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 Smart ForTwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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 Smart ForTwo (100 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Smart ForTwo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Smart ForTwo | 1997 Volkswagen Polo | |
Make | Smart | Volkswagen |
Model | ForTwo | Polo |
Year Released | 2001 | 1997 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 798 cc | 1043 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 40 HP | 49 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 100 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 815 kg | 955 kg |
Vehicle Length | 2510 mm | 3720 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1820 mm | 2410 mm |