2003 Smart Roadster vs. 2012 Volkswagen Eos
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Eos is newer by 9 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Eos is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Eos (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2003 Smart Roadster. (100 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Eos 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, 2012 Volkswagen Eos, 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, 2012 Volkswagen Eos (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Smart Roadster. (130 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Eos will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Smart Roadster. 2012 Volkswagen Eos 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. 2012 Volkswagen Eos will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Smart Roadster | 2012 Volkswagen Eos | |
| Make | Smart | Volkswagen |
| Model | Roadster | Eos |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 698 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3430 mm | 4423 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1444 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 55 L |
