2006 Smart Roadster vs. 1980 Volkswagen Iltis
To start off, 2006 Smart Roadster is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Iltis. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Iltis would be higher. At 1,714 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Volkswagen Iltis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Smart Roadster (100 HP) has 26 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Iltis. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Smart Roadster should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Iltis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volkswagen Iltis weights approximately 337 kg more than 2006 Smart Roadster.
Because 1980 Volkswagen Iltis is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Smart Roadster. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Iltis will offer significantly more control. 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, 1980 Volkswagen Iltis (135 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Smart Roadster. (130 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1980 Volkswagen Iltis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Smart Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Smart Roadster | 1980 Volkswagen Iltis | |
| Make | Smart | Volkswagen |
| Model | Roadster | Iltis |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 696 cc | 1714 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1302 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3430 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2110 mm |
