2008 Mercedes-Benz R vs. 2001 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Smart Roadster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Smart Roadster would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 2001 Smart Roadster. (81 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 2001 Smart Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 280 kg more than 2001 Smart Roadster. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Smart Roadster. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Smart Roadster. (110 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Smart Roadster. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 2001 Smart Roadster has manual transmission. 2001 Smart Roadster will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | 2001 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Smart |
| Model | R | Roadster |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3220 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 35 L |
