1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 vs. 2002 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2002 Smart Roadster is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 (287 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 206 more horse power than 2002 Smart Roadster. (81 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 should accelerate faster than 2002 Smart Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 weights approximately 1115 kg more than 2002 Smart Roadster. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mercedes-Benz 400 (410 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Smart Roadster. (110 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Smart Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 | 2002 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Smart |
| Model | 400 | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 696 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 287 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 66.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 67 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 232 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5110 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3050 mm | 2370 mm |
