1998 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2001 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2001 Smart Roadster is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Smart Roadster (81 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Smart Roadster should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 230 kg more than 2001 Smart Roadster.
Because 2001 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 2001 Smart Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A, 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 Mercedes-Benz A (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Smart Roadster. (110 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Smart Roadster. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2001 Smart Roadster has manual transmission. 2001 Smart Roadster will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mercedes-Benz A | 2001 Smart Roadster | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Smart |
Model | A | Roadster |
Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 1397 cc | 698 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 80 HP | 81 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 130 Nm | 110 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2250 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 66.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 69.5 mm | 67 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Top Speed | 167 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.6 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 865 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 3430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1200 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2370 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 35 L |