1998 Opel Astra vs. 2003 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2003 Smart Roadster 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 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Smart Roadster (81 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Smart Roadster should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 235 kg more than 2003 Smart Roadster.
Because 2003 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 2003 Smart Roadster. 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 (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Smart Roadster. (110 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Smart Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Opel Astra | 2003 Smart Roadster | |
Make | Opel | Smart |
Model | Astra | Roadster |
Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 698 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 81 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 130 Nm | 110 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2250 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 66.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 67 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | 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 | 1120 kg | 885 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 3430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1200 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2370 mm |