2003 MCC Smart vs. 2009 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 MCC Smart. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 MCC Smart would be higher. At 1,982 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 2003 MCC Smart. (81 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 2003 MCC Smart. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 1487 kg more than 2003 MCC Smart. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 MCC Smart. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2009 Volkswagen GTI (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 MCC Smart. (112 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 MCC Smart.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 MCC Smart | 2009 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | MCC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Smart | GTI |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 698 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 112 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3440 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2580 mm |
