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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Renault Clio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Smart Roadster (100 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1998 Renault Clio. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) 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. 1998 Renault Clio weights approximately 15 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 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, 1998 Renault Clio (131 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Smart Roadster. (130 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Renault Clio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Smart Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Renault Clio | 2006 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Renault | Smart |
| Model | Clio | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 696 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 66.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.5 mm | 67 mm |
| Top Speed | 181 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.6 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 | 980 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3780 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 5.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 35 L |
