1978 Audi 100 vs. 2006 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2006 Smart Roadster is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Audi 100 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (5 cylinders), 1978 Audi 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Smart Roadster (81 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1978 Audi 100. (70 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Smart Roadster should accelerate faster than 1978 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Audi 100 weights approximately 345 kg more than 2006 Smart Roadster.
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, 1978 Audi 100, 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, 1978 Audi 100 (125 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Smart Roadster. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1978 Audi 100 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Smart Roadster. 2006 Smart Roadster has automatic transmission and 1978 Audi 100 has manual transmission. 1978 Audi 100 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:
| 1978 Audi 100 | 2006 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Audi | Smart |
| Model | 100 | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 66.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 67 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 35 L |
