2001 Chrysler Neon vs. 2003 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2003 Smart Roadster is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Chrysler Neon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Chrysler Neon would be higher. At 3,518 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Chrysler Neon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Chrysler Neon (253 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 2003 Smart Roadster. (100 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Chrysler Neon 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, 2001 Chrysler Neon, 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, 2001 Chrysler Neon (332 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Smart Roadster. (130 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2001 Chrysler Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Smart Roadster. 2001 Chrysler Neon has automatic transmission and 2003 Smart Roadster has manual transmission. 2003 Smart Roadster will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Chrysler Neon will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Chrysler Neon | 2003 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Chrysler | Smart |
| Model | Neon | Roadster |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3518 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 253 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2370 mm |
