2008 Smart Roadster vs. 1973 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 2008 Smart Roadster is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Volkswagen 1600 is equipped with a bigger engine.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, both vehicles can yield 110 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2008 Smart Roadster has automatic transmission and 1973 Volkswagen 1600 has manual transmission. 1973 Volkswagen 1600 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Smart Roadster will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Smart Roadster | 1973 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Smart | Volkswagen |
| Model | Roadster | 1600 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Rear |
| Engine Size | 698 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 7.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3430 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.1 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 40 L |
