2005 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 2012 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2012 Smart ForTwo is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 2012 Smart ForTwo. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 2012 Smart ForTwo.
Because 2012 Smart ForTwo 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 2012 Smart ForTwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New 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, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Smart ForTwo. (125 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Smart ForTwo. 2012 Smart ForTwo has automatic transmission and 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Smart ForTwo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | 2012 Smart ForTwo | |
Make | Volkswagen | Smart |
Model | New Beetle | ForTwo |
Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 71 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 125 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automated manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |