2001 Smart ForTwo vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Smart ForTwo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Smart ForTwo would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2001 Smart ForTwo. (74 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 2001 Smart ForTwo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 460 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Smart ForTwo | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Smart | Volkswagen |
Model | ForTwo | New Beetle |
Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 698 cc | 1595 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 101 HP |
Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
Top Speed | 150 km/hour | 174 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.6 seconds | 11.6 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1280 kg |
Vehicle Length | 2510 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1820 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 33 L | 55 L |