1989 Ford Meteor vs. 2006 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2006 Smart Roadster is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Meteor. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Meteor would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Meteor is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Smart Roadster (81 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1989 Ford Meteor. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Smart Roadster should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Meteor.
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, 1989 Ford Meteor, 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, 1989 Ford Meteor (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Smart Roadster. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Meteor will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Smart Roadster. 2006 Smart Roadster has automatic transmission and 1989 Ford Meteor has manual transmission. 1989 Ford Meteor will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Smart Roadster will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Meteor | 2006 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Ford | Smart |
| Model | Meteor | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2370 mm |
