2008 Smart Roadster vs. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Smart Roadster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Smart Roadster would be higher. At 1,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 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, 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta (220 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Smart Roadster. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Smart Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Smart Roadster | 2013 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Smart | Volkswagen |
| Model | Roadster | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 698 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3430 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1453 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2651 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 45 L |
