2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2000 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Smart Roadster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Smart Roadster would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (141 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2000 Smart Roadster. (101 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2000 Smart Roadster.
Because 2000 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 2000 Smart Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3, 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 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Smart Roadster. (130 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Smart Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2000 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Mazda | Smart |
| Model | 3 | Roadster |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 66.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 67 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.7:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 190 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 Length | 4420 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6 L/100km | 5.3 L/100km |
