1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2005 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2005 Smart Roadster is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2005 Smart Roadster. (81 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2005 Smart Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 558 kg more than 2005 Smart Roadster. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Smart Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Smart Roadster. (110 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Smart Roadster. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 2005 Smart Roadster has manual transmission. 2005 Smart Roadster will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2005 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Chrysler | Smart |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 66.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 67 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1446 kg | 888 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 35 L |
