2008 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2001 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Smart ForTwo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Smart ForTwo would be higher. At 1,699 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2001 Smart ForTwo. (40 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 2001 Smart ForTwo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 425 kg more than 2001 Smart ForTwo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Smart ForTwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Smart ForTwo. (100 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Smart ForTwo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | 2001 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Smart |
| Model | A | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1699 cc | 798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 40 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 2510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 1820 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.8 L/100km | 3.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 22 L |
