2006 Smart ForTwo vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2006 Smart ForTwo is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Polo (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2006 Smart ForTwo. (60 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 2006 Smart ForTwo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 271 kg more than 2006 Smart ForTwo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Smart ForTwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 1996 Volkswagen Polo (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Smart ForTwo. (95 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1996 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Smart ForTwo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Smart ForTwo | 1996 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Smart | Volkswagen |
| Model | ForTwo | Polo |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 698 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 60 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 815 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2510 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1820 mm | 2410 mm |
