2002 MCC Smart vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 MCC Smart. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 MCC Smart would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2002 MCC Smart. (80 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2002 MCC Smart. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 398 kg more than 2002 MCC Smart. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 MCC Smart. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 MCC Smart. 2008 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2002 MCC Smart has manual transmission. 2002 MCC Smart will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 MCC Smart | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | MCC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Smart | Golf |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 698 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66.5 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.2 seconds | 10.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1188 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3430 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 55 L |
