1978 Renault 4 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 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 4 would be higher. At 1,108 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Renault 4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Smart Roadster (100 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1978 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Smart Roadster should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Smart Roadster weights approximately 250 kg more than 1978 Renault 4. 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, 1978 Renault 4, 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 (130 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 4. (72 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Smart Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Renault 4 | 2006 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Renault | Smart |
| Model | 4 | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1108 cc | 696 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 72 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70 mm | 66.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 67 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2370 mm |
