2005 Smart Roadster vs. 1999 Toyota Prius
To start off, 2005 Smart Roadster is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Toyota Prius. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Toyota Prius would be higher. At 1,499 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Toyota Prius is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Toyota Prius (127 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2005 Smart Roadster. (100 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Toyota Prius 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, 1999 Toyota Prius, 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) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Toyota Prius. (108 Nm). This means 2005 Smart Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Toyota Prius. 1999 Toyota Prius has automatic transmission and 2005 Smart Roadster has manual transmission. 2005 Smart Roadster will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Toyota Prius will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Smart Roadster | 1999 Toyota Prius | |
| Make | Smart | Toyota |
| Model | Roadster | Prius |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 698 cc | 1499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3430 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2440 mm |
