2003 Smart Roadster vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Smart Roadster is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2003 Smart Roadster. (100 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2003 Smart Roadster.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Smart Roadster. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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 Volkswagen Golf (305 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Smart Roadster. (130 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Smart Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Smart Roadster | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Smart | Volkswagen |
| Model | Roadster | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 698 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 202 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.8 seconds | 10 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3430 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 55 L |
