2002 Mazda 6 vs. 2006 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2006 Smart Roadster is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda 6 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2006 Smart Roadster. (81 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 2006 Smart Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda 6 weights approximately 540 kg more than 2006 Smart Roadster. 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, 2002 Mazda 6, 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, 2002 Mazda 6 (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Smart Roadster. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Smart Roadster. 2006 Smart Roadster has automatic transmission and 2002 Mazda 6 has manual transmission. 2002 Mazda 6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Smart Roadster will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda 6 | 2006 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Mazda | Smart |
| Model | 6 | Roadster |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2006 |
| 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 | 148 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 66.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 67 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 35 L |
