2003 Holden Astra vs. 2002 MCC Smart
To start off, 2003 Holden Astra is newer by 1 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Holden Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Holden Astra (120 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2002 MCC Smart. (80 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Holden Astra should accelerate faster than 2002 MCC Smart. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Holden Astra weights approximately 334 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, 2003 Holden Astra, 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, 2003 Holden Astra (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 MCC Smart. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Holden Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 MCC Smart.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Holden Astra | 2002 MCC Smart | |
| Make | Holden | MCC |
| Model | Astra | Smart |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 816 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2370 mm |
