1985 Alfa Romeo Arna vs. 2006 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2006 Smart Roadster is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Alfa Romeo Arna. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Alfa Romeo Arna would be higher. At 1,490 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Alfa Romeo Arna is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Smart Roadster (100 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1985 Alfa Romeo Arna. (94 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Smart Roadster should accelerate faster than 1985 Alfa Romeo Arna. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Smart Roadster weights approximately 45 kg more than 1985 Alfa Romeo Arna. 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, 1985 Alfa Romeo Arna, 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, both vehicles can yield 130 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Alfa Romeo Arna | 2006 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Smart |
| Model | Arna | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 696 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 66.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67.2 mm | 67 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 920 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2370 mm |
