2001 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2013 Smart Fortwo
To start off, 2013 Smart Fortwo is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Golf (73 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2013 Smart Fortwo. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2013 Smart Fortwo.
Because 2013 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 2013 Smart Fortwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Golf, 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 Volkswagen Golf (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Smart Fortwo. (125 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Smart Fortwo. 2013 Smart Fortwo has automatic transmission and 2001 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2001 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Smart Fortwo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Volkswagen Golf | 2013 Smart Fortwo | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Smart |
| Model | Golf | Fortwo |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1390 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
