1981 Simca 1100 vs. 2006 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2006 Smart Roadster is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Simca 1100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Simca 1100 would be higher. At 942 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Simca 1100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Smart Roadster (100 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1981 Simca 1100. (44 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Smart Roadster should accelerate faster than 1981 Simca 1100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Smart Roadster weights approximately 90 kg more than 1981 Simca 1100. 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, 1981 Simca 1100, 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 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Simca 1100. (66 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Smart Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Simca 1100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Simca 1100 | 2006 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Simca | Smart |
| Model | 1100 | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 942 cc | 696 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 66 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68 mm | 66.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 65 mm | 67 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 35 L |
