1949 Porsche 356 vs. 2003 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2003 Smart Roadster is newer by 54 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,131 cc (4 cylinders), 1949 Porsche 356 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Smart Roadster (81 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1949 Porsche 356. (38 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Smart Roadster should accelerate faster than 1949 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Smart Roadster weights approximately 105 kg more than 1949 Porsche 356. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 Porsche 356 | 2003 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Porsche | Smart |
| Model | 356 | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1949 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1131 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 780 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3870 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2370 mm |
