2003 Smart Roadster vs. 2007 Hyundai Matrix
To start off, 2007 Hyundai Matrix is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Smart Roadster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Smart Roadster would be higher. At 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Hyundai Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Hyundai Matrix (103 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2003 Smart Roadster. (81 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Hyundai Matrix should accelerate faster than 2003 Smart Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Hyundai Matrix weights approximately 438 kg more than 2003 Smart Roadster. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2007 Hyundai Matrix, 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, 2007 Hyundai Matrix (141 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Smart Roadster. (110 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2007 Hyundai Matrix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Smart Roadster. 2007 Hyundai Matrix 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. 2007 Hyundai Matrix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Smart Roadster | 2007 Hyundai Matrix | |
| Make | Smart | Hyundai |
| Model | Roadster | Matrix |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 698 cc | 1599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66.5 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 170 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 885 kg | 1323 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3430 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.1 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
