1998 Hyundai Lantra vs. 2006 Smart Roadster

To start off, 2006 Smart Roadster is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Hyundai Lantra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Hyundai Lantra would be higher. At 1,495 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Hyundai Lantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Hyundai Lantra (87 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2006 Smart Roadster. (81 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Hyundai Lantra should accelerate faster than 2006 Smart Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Hyundai Lantra weights approximately 210 kg more than 2006 Smart Roadster. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2006 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 2006 Smart Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Hyundai Lantra, 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 Hyundai Lantra (128 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Smart Roadster. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Hyundai Lantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Smart Roadster. 2006 Smart Roadster has automatic transmission and 1998 Hyundai Lantra has manual transmission. 1998 Hyundai Lantra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Smart Roadster will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Hyundai Lantra 2006 Smart Roadster
Make Hyundai Smart
Model Lantra Roadster
Year Released 1998 2006
Engine Position Front Rear
Engine Size 1495 cc 698 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 3 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 87 HP 81 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5250 RPM
Torque 128 Nm 110 Nm
Torque RPM 4300 RPM 3000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 2 seats
Vehicle Weight 1095 kg 885 kg
Vehicle Length 4460 mm 3430 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1200 mm
Wheelbase Size 2560 mm 2370 mm