1991 Holden Nova vs. 2006 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2006 Smart Roadster is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Holden Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Holden Nova would be higher. At 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Holden Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 81 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Holden Nova weights approximately 130 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, 1991 Holden Nova, 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, 1991 Holden Nova (118 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Smart Roadster. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 Holden Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Smart Roadster. 2006 Smart Roadster has automatic transmission and 1991 Holden Nova has manual transmission. 1991 Holden Nova 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:
| 1991 Holden Nova | 2006 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Holden | Smart |
| Model | Nova | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1015 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2370 mm |
