2005 Smart Roadster vs. 1996 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2005 Smart Roadster is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 (150 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2005 Smart Roadster. (100 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 should accelerate faster than 2005 Smart Roadster.
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, 1996 Alfa Romeo 146, 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, 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 (187 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Smart Roadster. (130 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Smart Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Smart Roadster | 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Smart | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Roadster | 146 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 698 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3430 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 50 L |
