2002 MCC Smart vs. 1979 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 MCC Smart is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,272 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 MCC Smart (80 HP) has 21 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2002 MCC Smart should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 15 kg more than 2002 MCC Smart.
Because 2002 MCC 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 2002 MCC Smart. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 2002 MCC Smart (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 MCC Smart will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 MCC Smart | 1979 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | MCC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Smart | Golf |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 698 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3430 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 45 L |
