1998 BMW 317 vs. 2000 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2000 Smart Roadster is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 317 would be higher. At 1,665 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 317 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Smart Roadster (101 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Smart Roadster should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317.
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, 1998 BMW 317 (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Smart Roadster. (130 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 317 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Smart Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 317 | 2000 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | BMW | Smart |
| Model | 317 | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2370 mm |
