1981 Citroen LN vs. 2003 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2003 Smart Roadster is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Citroen LN. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Citroen LN would be higher. At 698 cc (3 cylinders), 2003 Smart Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Smart Roadster (100 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1981 Citroen LN. (35 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Smart Roadster should accelerate faster than 1981 Citroen LN.
Because 2003 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 2003 Smart Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Citroen LN, 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, 2003 Smart Roadster (130 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Citroen LN. (50 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Smart Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Citroen LN.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Citroen LN | 2003 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Citroen | Smart |
| Model | LN | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 35 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 50 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 35 L |
