2008 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2011 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2011 Smart ForTwo is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2011 Smart ForTwo. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2011 Smart ForTwo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 464 kg more than 2011 Smart ForTwo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 Smart ForTwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf, 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 Volkswagen Golf (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Smart ForTwo. (92 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Smart ForTwo.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Volkswagen Golf | 2011 Smart ForTwo | |
Make | Volkswagen | Smart |
Model | Golf | ForTwo |
Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 92 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1284 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 2695 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1560 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1542 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 1867 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 33 L |