1998 Renault Clio 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 Renault Clio. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Renault Clio would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Renault Clio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Smart Roadster (100 HP) has 26 more horse power than 1998 Renault Clio. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Smart Roadster should accelerate faster than 1998 Renault Clio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Smart Roadster weights approximately 30 kg more than 1998 Renault Clio. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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 Renault Clio, 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, 2006 Smart Roadster (130 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Renault Clio. (114 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2006 Smart Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Renault Clio.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Renault Clio 2006 Smart Roadster
Make Renault Smart
Model Clio Roadster
Year Released 1998 2006
Body Type Hatchback Coupe
Engine Position Front Rear
Engine Size 1390 cc 696 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 3 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 74 HP 100 HP
Torque 114 Nm 130 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 2500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 75.8 mm 66.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 77 mm 67 mm
Top Speed 170 km/hour 195 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 12.1 seconds 9.8 seconds
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 940 kg 970 kg
Vehicle Length 3780 mm 3430 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1200 mm
Wheelbase Size 2480 mm 2370 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 6.8 L/100km 5.3 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 50 L 35 L