1988 Fiat Tipo vs. 2006 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2006 Smart Roadster is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Fiat Tipo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Fiat Tipo would be higher. At 1,581 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Fiat Tipo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Smart Roadster (100 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1988 Fiat Tipo. (83 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Smart Roadster should accelerate faster than 1988 Fiat Tipo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Fiat Tipo weights approximately 85 kg more than 2006 Smart Roadster.
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, 1988 Fiat Tipo, 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:
| 1988 Fiat Tipo | 2006 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Fiat | Smart |
| Model | Tipo | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1581 cc | 696 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 66.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67.5 mm | 67 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2370 mm |
