2008 Smart Roadster vs. 1984 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Smart Roadster is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine.
Because 2008 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 2008 Smart Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 1984 Volkswagen Jetta (158 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Smart Roadster. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1984 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Smart Roadster. 2008 Smart Roadster has automatic transmission and 1984 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1984 Volkswagen Jetta 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 | 1984 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Smart | Volkswagen |
| Model | Roadster | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 698 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 109 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3430 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 55 L |
