1990 Holden Apollo vs. 2003 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2003 Smart Roadster is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Holden Apollo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Holden Apollo would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Holden Apollo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Holden Apollo (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2003 Smart Roadster. (81 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Holden Apollo should accelerate faster than 2003 Smart Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Holden Apollo weights approximately 320 kg more than 2003 Smart Roadster. 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, 1990 Holden Apollo, 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, 1990 Holden Apollo (171 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Smart Roadster. (110 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1990 Holden Apollo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Smart Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Holden Apollo | 2003 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Holden | Smart |
| Model | Apollo | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2370 mm |
