1998 Opel Speedster vs. 2004 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2004 Smart ForFour is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Speedster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Speedster would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Speedster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Speedster (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2004 Smart ForFour. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Speedster should accelerate faster than 2004 Smart ForFour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Smart ForFour weights approximately 30 kg more than 1998 Opel Speedster.
Because 1998 Opel Speedster 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 1998 Opel Speedster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Smart ForFour, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Speedster | 2004 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Opel | Smart |
| Model | Speedster | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 84.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 47 L |
