1985 Saab 9000 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 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Saab 9000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Saab 9000 (173 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 2006 Smart Roadster. (100 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 2006 Smart Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Saab 9000 weights approximately 430 kg more than 2006 Smart Roadster. 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 Saab 9000, 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 Saab 9000 (278 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Smart Roadster. (130 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1985 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Smart Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Saab 9000 | 2006 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Saab | Smart |
| Model | 9000 | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 696 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.1 mm | 66.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 67 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 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 Weight | 1400 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 35 L |
