2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2002 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Smart Roadster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Smart Roadster would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (119 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2002 Smart Roadster. (81 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2002 Smart Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 728 kg more than 2002 Smart Roadster. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Smart Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Smart Roadster. (110 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Smart Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2002 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Chrysler | Smart |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Roadster |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 696 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 66.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 67 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1613 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.8 L/100km | 5.1 L/100km |
