1974 Peugeot 204 vs. 2005 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2005 Smart Roadster is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Peugeot 204. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Peugeot 204 would be higher. At 1,130 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Peugeot 204 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Smart Roadster (81 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1974 Peugeot 204. (47 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Smart Roadster should accelerate faster than 1974 Peugeot 204. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Smart Roadster weights approximately 23 kg more than 1974 Peugeot 204. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Smart Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Peugeot 204, 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, 2005 Smart Roadster (110 Nm @ 2250 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Peugeot 204. (84 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Smart Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Peugeot 204.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Peugeot 204 | 2005 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Peugeot | Smart |
| Model | 204 | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1130 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 865 kg | 888 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2370 mm |
