1998 Opel Astra vs. 2003 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2003 Smart ForTwo is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,686 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Astra (74 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2003 Smart ForTwo. (60 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2003 Smart ForTwo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 355 kg more than 2003 Smart ForTwo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Smart ForTwo 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 2003 Smart ForTwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Opel Astra, 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 Opel Astra (167 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Smart ForTwo. (96 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Smart ForTwo.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Opel Astra | 2003 Smart ForTwo | |
Make | Opel | Smart |
Model | Astra | ForTwo |
Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 1686 cc | 698 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 60 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 66.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 67 mm |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 815 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 2510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1540 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 1820 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 33 L |