1979 Dodge Omni vs. 2005 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2005 Smart Roadster is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Dodge Omni. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Dodge Omni would be higher. At 1,715 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Dodge Omni is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Smart Roadster (100 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1979 Dodge Omni. (64 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Smart Roadster should accelerate faster than 1979 Dodge Omni.
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, 1979 Dodge Omni, 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 (130 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Dodge Omni. (115 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Smart Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Dodge Omni.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Dodge Omni | 2005 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Dodge | Smart |
| Model | Omni | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1715 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 66.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 67 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 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 | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 35 L |
