1997 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2008 Smart Roadster is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine.
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, 1997 BMW M3 (236 Nm) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Smart Roadster. (110 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Smart Roadster. 2008 Smart Roadster has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Smart Roadster will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2008 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | BMW | Smart |
| Model | M3 | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2370 mm |
