1997 Kia Clarus vs. 2002 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2002 Smart Roadster is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Kia Clarus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Kia Clarus would be higher. At 1,793 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Kia Clarus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Kia Clarus (114 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2002 Smart Roadster. (81 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Kia Clarus should accelerate faster than 2002 Smart Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Kia Clarus weights approximately 335 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.
Because 2002 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 2002 Smart Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Kia Clarus, 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, 1997 Kia Clarus (152 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Smart Roadster. (110 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1997 Kia Clarus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Smart Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Kia Clarus | 2002 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Kia | Smart |
| Model | Clarus | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1793 cc | 696 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2370 mm |
