1973 Innocenti J4 vs. 2006 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2006 Smart Roadster is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Innocenti J4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Innocenti J4 would be higher. At 1,097 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Innocenti J4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Smart Roadster (81 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1973 Innocenti J4. (56 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Smart Roadster should accelerate faster than 1973 Innocenti J4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Smart Roadster weights approximately 5 kg more than 1973 Innocenti J4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Smart Roadster 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 Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 Innocenti J4, 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, 2006 Smart Roadster (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Innocenti J4. (83 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Smart Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Innocenti J4. 2006 Smart Roadster has automatic transmission and 1973 Innocenti J4 has manual transmission. 1973 Innocenti J4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Smart Roadster will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Innocenti J4 | 2006 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Innocenti | Smart |
| Model | J4 | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1097 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 64.6 mm | 66.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.7 mm | 67 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3720 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2370 mm |
