1986 Ford Fiesta vs. 2003 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2003 Smart Roadster is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Smart Roadster (81 HP) has 6 more horse power than 1986 Ford Fiesta. (75 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Smart Roadster should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Smart Roadster weights approximately 85 kg more than 1986 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1986 Ford Fiesta, 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, 1986 Ford Fiesta (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Smart Roadster. (110 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1986 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Smart Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Fiesta | 2003 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Ford | Smart |
| Model | Fiesta | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1392 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 81 HP |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 66.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 67 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3650 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2370 mm |
