1998 Proton Perdana 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 Proton Perdana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Proton Perdana would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Proton Perdana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Proton Perdana (136 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2003 Smart Roadster. (100 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Proton Perdana should accelerate faster 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 Proton Perdana, 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 Proton Perdana (176 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Smart Roadster. (130 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Proton Perdana will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Smart Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Proton Perdana | 2003 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Proton | Smart |
| Model | Perdana | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2370 mm |
