2005 Smart Roadster vs. 1996 Volvo V40
To start off, 2005 Smart Roadster is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo V40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo V40 would be higher. At 1,731 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volvo V40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo V40 (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2005 Smart Roadster. (100 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo V40 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 Volvo V40, 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 Volvo V40 (164 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Smart Roadster. (130 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo V40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Smart Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Smart Roadster | 1996 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | Smart | Volvo |
| Model | Roadster | V40 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 698 cc | 1731 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3430 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2570 mm |
