1974 Peugeot 304 vs. 2001 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2001 Smart Roadster is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Peugeot 304. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Peugeot 304 would be higher. At 1,290 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Peugeot 304 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Smart Roadster (81 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1974 Peugeot 304. (64 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Smart Roadster should accelerate faster than 1974 Peugeot 304. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Peugeot 304 weights approximately 85 kg more than 2001 Smart Roadster.
Because 2001 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 2001 Smart Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Peugeot 304, 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, 2001 Smart Roadster (110 Nm @ 2250 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Peugeot 304. (94 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2001 Smart Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Peugeot 304.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Peugeot 304 | 2001 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Peugeot | Smart |
| Model | 304 | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1290 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 66.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67.6 mm | 67 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 35 L |
