2005 Smart Roadster vs. 1983 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Smart Roadster is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,272 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Smart Roadster (100 HP) has 47 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Smart Roadster should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2005 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 2005 Smart Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2005 Smart Roadster (130 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2005 Smart Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Smart Roadster | 1983 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Smart | Volkswagen |
| Model | Roadster | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 698 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 151 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3430 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 55 L |
