2005 MCC Smart vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 MCC Smart. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 MCC Smart would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 2005 MCC Smart. (60 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 2005 MCC Smart. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 603 kg more than 2005 MCC Smart. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 MCC Smart. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 MCC Smart. (96 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 MCC Smart.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 MCC Smart | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | MCC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Smart | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 698 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 60 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 730 kg | 1333 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3440 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2537 mm |
