2004 smart roadster

Summary:

Sold my CLK Cabrio, bought this, and have never for a moment regretted it

Faults:

Absolutely nothing... zip. De nada, nil!!

General Comments:

It's a lot faster than a small car with a peanut for an engine has any right to be... however (and it's a BIG however)... its general nippiness can lead you into overtaking when perhaps you shouldn't, as it runs out of revs very quickly.

The interior seems to be holding up well, and fits me well (6ft), and I find it perfectly comfortable for long and short journeys.

It's not easy to get out of though, if you're older and fatter (like me), as it's low and narrow.

Seems very well made, and I recommend it to anyone who isn't bothered by the impracticality of it, and just wants affordable fun.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 23rd June, 2012

2003 smart roadster

Summary:

Fantastic, affordable fun

Faults:

A bit leaky. Had 'three bar' problem.

General Comments:

This is one of the best cars I've ever driven! Its glued to the road even on the sharpest of bends! Fuel economy is excellent! Most economical fun you'll ever have in a car!

Yes there are a few leaks, but once it's fixed properly there are no problems.

It's not exactly family car sized when it comes to long journeys and luggage space, but if you are any good at Tetris, you should manage!

I drive this as my main car, and also have a 190e Mercedes for passengers and when I need more room. It's rare that the Merc does get used though.

Hope this helps any prospective buyers, it really is an exquisite car :)

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 10th February, 2011

2005 smart roadster 0.7

Summary:

Will buy another. Shame they stopped making them

Faults:

This is one great car, it is like a cross between a mark 1 MR2 and the golden age of British sports cars, like MGs and Triumphs.

Great as you have Mercedes build quality and reliability.

You have a hard targa top that is totally secure, 55 plus mpg and £90 a year tax.

The handling is great, and there is that great whine to the engine. It also has ABS and ESP.

You can fit stuff in the front and not much in the rear, go shopping on your own, and put things where the passenger sits.

General Comments:

This car handles great.

Reliable.

Fun.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 30th December, 2010

31st Dec 2010, 05:38

Update: the only reason it's not 10 for running costs, was I thought it best to take to an independent Mercedes dealer for the service.

2004 smart roadster 0.7 80bhp

Summary:

Nippy, suprisingly quick and good value, which means the pros outweigh the cons

Faults:

One of the coils had broken, however this wasn't the car's fault, but was due to poor roads.

Soft top stopped working and ended up stuck open; managed to get the thing fixed, but a real pain.

Leaks on the doors, but doesn't happen very often. I believe it's mainly due to not closing the door hard enough or the window completely fully. I also think water might have run down from the wing mirror once the door is opened and pressure is taken off the seal.

General Comments:

Pros:

Car is surprisingly quick. Usually people ask me is it fast? I usually reply with as quick as an MGF to 60. Then I say with only a 0.7 litre engine, it costs me half as much to get there that quick too.

Handling is amazing. Also I use the car all year round in rain, snow or sunshine. The car has never let me down, and always started first time.

Looks always draw attention from other motorists.

Car is nice to look at, and always brings a smile to the owners face when they see it.

Cheap on fuel.

You always get a wave from other smart roadster users.

Cons:

Gearbox is a little annoying, especially in semi auto. I like to just leave it in manual and I find it makes driving a lot more relaxing. However, I am now itching to buy something faster with a manual gearbox.

Leaks are always a problem with convertibles. Mine has never had a major leak since I have owned it. However the odd drip now and then happens, but is bearable.

The suspension is stiff, which should be expected from a low convertible.

Servicing is a little tricky. After hiring a mobile mechanic to service the car, I ended up spending 6 hours helping him service the car due to how difficult it can be. My advice is take it to smart for a service; I think it's around 220.00.

Changing bulbs on the car is also a bit of a task. Removing the cover on the front lights requires a bit of skill. They are almost pushed to breaking point with the amount of force needed. Also all the bolts are torx headed, which doesn't help.

Overall, the car has its faults, but owning one in my experience has been a pleasure. I will always fondly remember my smart roadster, even though I'm planning on a new car soon that's even less practical.

My advice is you should consider one if you are looking for a 2 seater sports car and are on a budget. They are fun to drive and cheap to run.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 7th August, 2010