2003 Proton 400 vs. 2006 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2006 Smart Roadster is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Proton 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Proton 400 would be higher. At 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Proton 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Smart Roadster (81 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2003 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Smart Roadster should accelerate faster than 2003 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Proton 400 weights approximately 105 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, 2003 Proton 400, 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 (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Smart Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Proton 400. 2006 Smart Roadster has automatic transmission and 2003 Proton 400 has manual transmission. 2003 Proton 400 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:
2003 Proton 400 | 2006 Smart Roadster | |
Make | Proton | Smart |
Model | 400 | Roadster |
Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 1299 cc | 698 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 81 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 108 Nm | 110 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 865 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 3430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1200 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2370 mm |