1985 Renault 18 vs. 2001 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2001 Smart Roadster is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Renault 18 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Renault 18 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Renault 18 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2001 Smart Roadster. (81 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Renault 18 should accelerate faster than 2001 Smart Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Renault 18 weights approximately 270 kg more than 2001 Smart Roadster. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Smart Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Renault 18, 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, 1985 Renault 18 (163 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Smart Roadster. (110 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1985 Renault 18 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Smart Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Renault 18 | 2001 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Renault | Smart |
| Model | 18 | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 66.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 67 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1135 kg | 865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1200 mm |
