1996 Opel Frontera 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 Opel Frontera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Frontera would be higher. At 2,195 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Opel Frontera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Opel Frontera (134 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2003 Smart Roadster. (81 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Opel Frontera should accelerate faster than 2003 Smart Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Frontera weights approximately 754 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 1996 Opel Frontera is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Smart Roadster. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Opel Frontera will offer significantly more control. 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 Opel Frontera (202 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Smart Roadster. (110 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1996 Opel Frontera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Smart Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Frontera | 2003 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Opel | Smart |
| Model | Frontera | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2195 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1639 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2370 mm |
