1998 Opel Astra 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 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Smart Roadster (100 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (85 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 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 320 kg more than 2006 Smart Roadster.
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 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 (188 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Smart Roadster. (130 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Smart Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Astra | 2006 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Opel | Smart |
| Model | Astra | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 696 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 66.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 67 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| 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 | 1290 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 44 L | 35 L |
