2004 Audi A3 vs. 2002 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Smart Roadster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Smart Roadster would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2002 Smart Roadster. (81 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Smart Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 320 kg more than 2002 Smart Roadster. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Smart Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3, 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, 2004 Audi A3 (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Smart Roadster. (110 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Smart Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2002 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Audi | Smart |
| Model | A3 | Roadster |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 696 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 66.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 67 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 5.1 L/100km |
