1996 Alfa Romeo GTV vs. 2003 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2003 Smart Roadster is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 2003 Smart Roadster. (81 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV should accelerate faster than 2003 Smart Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV weights approximately 530 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, 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV, 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, 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV (275 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Smart Roadster. (110 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Smart Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV | 2003 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Smart |
| Model | GTV | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 66.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.6 mm | 67 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2370 mm |
