2006 Smart Roadster vs. 1998 Saturn SC
To start off, 2006 Smart Roadster is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Saturn SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Saturn SC would be higher. At 1,901 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Saturn SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 100 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Saturn SC weights approximately 80 kg more than 2006 Smart Roadster.
Because 2006 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 2006 Smart Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Saturn SC, 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, 1998 Saturn SC (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Smart Roadster. (130 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Saturn SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Smart Roadster. 1998 Saturn SC has automatic transmission and 2006 Smart Roadster has manual transmission. 2006 Smart Roadster will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Saturn SC will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Smart Roadster | 1998 Saturn SC | |
| Make | Smart | Saturn |
| Model | Roadster | SC |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 696 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3430 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2610 mm |
