2001 Smart ForTwo vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 11 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (280 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 206 more horse power than 2001 Smart ForTwo. (74 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2001 Smart ForTwo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 743 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, 2012 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. 2012 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 2001 Smart ForTwo has manual transmission. 2001 Smart ForTwo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Smart ForTwo | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Smart | Volkswagen |
Model | ForTwo | Passat |
Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 698 cc | 3600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 280 HP |
Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1563 kg |
Vehicle Length | 2510 mm | 4769 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1820 mm | 2712 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 33 L | 70 L |