I mean, what better strategy to grab market share and ensure longevity for the company.|||this person stated parts availability, and if you ever had fords wonder box srod(tremec 4 spd overdrive) you know what they mean, obsolete what do you mean obsolete its only like 7 - 10 yrs old, hmm no parts store can get em either, hmm the original manufactuer of the gearbox cant sell parts because you have the patten, what now?
its not guaranteeing the part, however this would work with a non-transferable warranty.|||thats not smart/its the other way|||same reason no car maker will,parts wont last that long.|||Obviously, you have no background at all in business.
The reason they don't do this, is two fold.
First, is cost. If you warranty things out to 1000 years, try to figure out how much EACH car will eventually cost the company.
Let's say you do $1000 in repairs, in a year. Over 1,000 years, you're already up to 1 million dollars. For a car that you paid 15-20,000 for.
That's like my giving you a dollar, and you give me your house and all the money in your bank account.
Then multiply that by all the cars they will make between now and that 1,000 year mark.
You're easily into the hundreds of billions of dollars spent. If not exponentially more.
Complete, utter loss.
The second reason, is why would you? Rocks don't even last to 1,000 years sometimes, why would you guarantee a highly complicated machine would?
Totally ridiculous, from a logical point of view.|||Why would I even WANT my car to last 1000 years? I'll probably be too old to drive by then, anyway.|||Kind of hard to know if they will be in business in a 1000 years. And would not be cost effective. Would you guarantee you work for that long? Or even for the rest of your life?|||Because any "smart" car manufacturer wouldn't be that STUPID!!!!|||1000 is very excessive. im almost inclined to believe you are having a laugh here. just think of the advancements cars have made in the past, what, 20 years....how can you manufacture a vehicle and have thousands of parts sitting around for it just for your convenience? we won't even have internal combustion cars around in 1000 years!!!|||For one, the car would be overly outdated in 1000 years, and companies need the next best thing out there. Just think, if Henry Ford guaranteed Model T parts for 1000 years what might we be driving today?
Second, why 1000 years? 9/10 you won't live that long anyway.
Third, It will cost so much to the automaker that they'll have to close down probably within a year of announcing the parts guarantee.
Fourth, unless that car is a Formula 1 racer, I don't see the point in making it last a thousand years when better cars will come out and you'll be long gone before your guarantee hits 100 years old.
Saturday, December 24, 2011
Where can I rent a Smart Car in the NYC area?
They're really cool and I'd like to rent one to try it out for a day before I commit to buying one.|||just found this, check out geniusride.com
my brother just rented one last week and he was real happy
my brother just rented one last week and he was real happy
This is aimed at anybody on Canada or Europe who either owns a Smart car or knows somebody who owns one.?
As I understand it Smart Cars have been in Canada since 2004, a little longer in Europe. How do that behave in the snow? I have my own ideas but I would like any input from anyone who has direct experance or knows somebody with direct experance.|||I've had one for a couple years and have never had any major issues with its handling in the snow.
If my registration is out of date, can I still turn in my lease/smart buy car?
I moved out of state recently, but my smart buy on my cadillac is coming up here in a month or so. My state registration is expired, and obviously I dont want to go thru all of the hassle of getting it switched over to the new state just to turn in the vehicle this next month. Will a dealership accept a lease/smart buy car with an out of date registration? Thanks!!|||You would have to get the car to a local dealer to turn it in, but once you do that, it does not have to have a current registration.
You could tow the car in, or take the chance of driving it to the dealership with dead tags. You could also contact the dealership where you are going to be turning the car in, and see if they could help you (possibly for a fee) by riding with you to pick up the car, and them driving it back to the dealership on a dealer tag.|||it shouldnt be a problem, they need to have the vehicles inspected and then notify the state that it has been turned in anyway|||Your actual lease documents would supply this information. If lost, go online and look up a copy of the Lease agreement, again, it should supply the terms that are required for returning a vehicle.|||drive out tags or temp tags so one can drive most dmv can get one thats good for 14 days|||Talk to the dealship so you know for sure.
You could tow the car in, or take the chance of driving it to the dealership with dead tags. You could also contact the dealership where you are going to be turning the car in, and see if they could help you (possibly for a fee) by riding with you to pick up the car, and them driving it back to the dealership on a dealer tag.|||it shouldnt be a problem, they need to have the vehicles inspected and then notify the state that it has been turned in anyway|||Your actual lease documents would supply this information. If lost, go online and look up a copy of the Lease agreement, again, it should supply the terms that are required for returning a vehicle.|||drive out tags or temp tags so one can drive most dmv can get one thats good for 14 days|||Talk to the dealship so you know for sure.
Do you know of a good wesite where i can buy SMART car accessories?
such as the rings that go on the clock etc, things to make the car look pretty, or accessories like keyrings and mugs and t-shirts and all that stuff.|||A quick search on the net for "Smart Car owners clubs" will help you find what you're after. I joined www.thesmartclub.co.uk, where you'll find a buzzing community of Smart Nuts, friendly advice and discussion, links to parts and accessories suppliers and year round events some of which are definitely worth going to.
Hope this helps.|||When I was looking for car accessories I searched a lot for my new bmw then i found a cheap site which is http://www.directcaraccessories.co.uk
i liked the product momo corse very much
See this product
http://www.directcaraccessories.co.uk/catalog/gear-knobs-momo-corse-c-142_4626_5633.html
|||Has the Smart Car got it's own website - you could try there? Otherwise, and I belive it's the answer to everything, try ebay...|||a smart car is an accesory i keep one in the boot of my zafira|||EBay|||Ebay!!! Just check the seller's history:)
Hope this helps.|||When I was looking for car accessories I searched a lot for my new bmw then i found a cheap site which is http://www.directcaraccessories.co.uk
i liked the product momo corse very much
See this product
http://www.directcaraccessories.co.uk/catalog/gear-knobs-momo-corse-c-142_4626_5633.html
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|||Has the Smart Car got it's own website - you could try there? Otherwise, and I belive it's the answer to everything, try ebay...|||a smart car is an accesory i keep one in the boot of my zafira|||EBay|||Ebay!!! Just check the seller's history:)
Isn't a car from the 1940s safer than say a Motorcycle or a smart car?
If so, why do you all ***** about classic car safety?|||In my opinion yes, because I have seen many motorcycle accidents and several smart car accidents that were in the body shop next to us and the the occupants of the smart cars had severe injuries from what I was told and the cars were totaled out, at least the older ones had real metal, okay no airbags but still..|||It may be safer than a motorbike but i am not sure about the smart car.
The highway safety institute ran some tests a few years ago comparing 1950 cars to modern cars and the modern cars came away with less damage every time!.
The survivability for passengers was also dramatically better in the newer cars.|||ANY car is safer than any motorcycle .
Having said that the cars from the 1940's were death traps that didn't have
Padded steering wheels
Padded dashboards
Collapsible steering columns
Seat / shoulder belts ....and many other safety features that are standard in today's cars .
My first car was a 1962 Ford Galaxie 500 so I know what I'm talking about.|||No its not safer than a Smart car. The 40's car might survive the accident better but everybody in the car wont. Modern cars are designed to crumple which helps absorb the impact so you take less of a hit. Old cars were extremely rigid which will pass all the crash impact to you making you do the crumpling.|||Smart cars are surprisingly safe, look up safety ratings. And it's true, a 1940s car could easily survive a crash with only a couple scratches, but all that potential energy that isn't absorbed through the bumper like on modern cars is transferred to the passengers.|||Cars from the 1940's were death traps;
- they rolled over easily
- their handling sucked big time
- they had drum brakes which faded after a couple of uses
- they didn't have collapsible steering columns
- no seat belts
- no energy absorbing components whatsoever
- no padded dashes
- dashboard festooned with hard knobs and levers
- only a few cars had safety glass
- even fewer cars had power steering OR brakes
- tires of the day were no good when they were new
Hell; I have a 1959 Jaguar that I just spent a fortune on putting in proper seat belts.|||It is definitely not safer than a smart car.
It is probably safer than a motorcycle, but only in the sense that cars are inherently safer than motorcycles, not for reasons related to classics versus modern.|||Safety begins with the operator.
Operate within the limits of the vehicle, the road and the driver and all is fine.
Until some other clod does not.
The highway safety institute ran some tests a few years ago comparing 1950 cars to modern cars and the modern cars came away with less damage every time!.
The survivability for passengers was also dramatically better in the newer cars.|||ANY car is safer than any motorcycle .
Having said that the cars from the 1940's were death traps that didn't have
Padded steering wheels
Padded dashboards
Collapsible steering columns
Seat / shoulder belts ....and many other safety features that are standard in today's cars .
My first car was a 1962 Ford Galaxie 500 so I know what I'm talking about.|||No its not safer than a Smart car. The 40's car might survive the accident better but everybody in the car wont. Modern cars are designed to crumple which helps absorb the impact so you take less of a hit. Old cars were extremely rigid which will pass all the crash impact to you making you do the crumpling.|||Smart cars are surprisingly safe, look up safety ratings. And it's true, a 1940s car could easily survive a crash with only a couple scratches, but all that potential energy that isn't absorbed through the bumper like on modern cars is transferred to the passengers.|||Cars from the 1940's were death traps;
- they rolled over easily
- their handling sucked big time
- they had drum brakes which faded after a couple of uses
- they didn't have collapsible steering columns
- no seat belts
- no energy absorbing components whatsoever
- no padded dashes
- dashboard festooned with hard knobs and levers
- only a few cars had safety glass
- even fewer cars had power steering OR brakes
- tires of the day were no good when they were new
Hell; I have a 1959 Jaguar that I just spent a fortune on putting in proper seat belts.|||It is definitely not safer than a smart car.
It is probably safer than a motorcycle, but only in the sense that cars are inherently safer than motorcycles, not for reasons related to classics versus modern.|||Safety begins with the operator.
Operate within the limits of the vehicle, the road and the driver and all is fine.
Until some other clod does not.
What kind of suspension does a smart car have?
coil spring or leaf spring? and does it have all wheel drive or front wheel drive? please and thank you!|||It's got a MacPherson Strut front suspension and a DeDion rear suspension. And it's neither front-wheel-drive nor all-wheel-drive. It's rear-engined, rear-wheel-drive.|||Front axle suspension lower wishbone, McPherson strut, anti-roll bar
Rear axle suspension DeDion axle, coil springs, telescopic shock absorbers|||don't buy smart.|||Can you say death trap?
Rear axle suspension DeDion axle, coil springs, telescopic shock absorbers|||don't buy smart.|||Can you say death trap?
Spanner symbol on a Smart Car. What does it mean?
I've got a ForTwo Smart car and just recently I have been getting a single spanner icon appear on the display whenever I turn on the engine accompanied by a number (this case 28).
What does it mean and do I need to panic? Thanks|||The spanner indicates that something is due for a service. 28 may mean it needs one in 28 miles or is 28 miles overdue and this may change as you drive.
The 28 may be a fault code to tell you what needs looking at.
See a Smart dealer.|||The single spanner is sign that the car is ready for it's "A" service from your dealer. The number is the number of days (approximately) til the service should be done. There's no need for panic, it's simply the car's way of telling you it wants to go to the garage for it's regular maintenance.
It will also show two spanners when it's ready for it's "B" service, which is a more involved maintenance service.|||probably means you are due for maintenance. is it time for an oil change? maybe you need an air filter or fuel filter. ive never dealt with a smart car personally, but a call to the dealer would probably help you. they can tell you what the code means, its importance, and they could even schedule a service for you|||it means you must be a bit of a spanner for buying a smart (how do they get away with calling it that as it plainly isnt)|||seems like youll need to look at your manual
as it might be a repair
What does it mean and do I need to panic? Thanks|||The spanner indicates that something is due for a service. 28 may mean it needs one in 28 miles or is 28 miles overdue and this may change as you drive.
The 28 may be a fault code to tell you what needs looking at.
See a Smart dealer.|||The single spanner is sign that the car is ready for it's "A" service from your dealer. The number is the number of days (approximately) til the service should be done. There's no need for panic, it's simply the car's way of telling you it wants to go to the garage for it's regular maintenance.
It will also show two spanners when it's ready for it's "B" service, which is a more involved maintenance service.|||probably means you are due for maintenance. is it time for an oil change? maybe you need an air filter or fuel filter. ive never dealt with a smart car personally, but a call to the dealer would probably help you. they can tell you what the code means, its importance, and they could even schedule a service for you|||it means you must be a bit of a spanner for buying a smart (how do they get away with calling it that as it plainly isnt)|||seems like youll need to look at your manual
as it might be a repair
Is there any place in the greater Los angeles are to rent a Smart Car?
I am looking to rent a smart for a few days.|||Smart Cars near Los Angeles - Local Results
Smart Car Buyer - (310) 820-8265 - 1516 S Bundy Dr, Los Angeles, CA - 11.37mi - map
Smart Car Buyer - (310) 837-0944 - 8748 Washington Blvd, Culver City, CA - 7.46mi - map
Smart Car Buyer - (310) 820-8265 - 1516 S Bundy Dr, Los Angeles, CA - 11.37mi - map
Smart Car Buyer - (310) 837-0944 - 8748 Washington Blvd, Culver City, CA - 7.46mi - map
Where can I buy a smart car for cash?
I don't want to finance one and I don't want to be on a waiting list. I want to literally walk into a dealership, had them a pile of Benjamins and drive away.|||buy one from someone who was on the waiting list.
otherwise you'll have to find a used one.
if you offer enough money anything is possible|||There's some new (and hardly used) ones on ebay and several sellers are willing to ship or meet you half way.
otherwise you'll have to find a used one.
if you offer enough money anything is possible|||There's some new (and hardly used) ones on ebay and several sellers are willing to ship or meet you half way.
Where can I get parts and engine technical information for a CDI Diesel Smart car?
I Have a 2006 CDI Diesel Smart Engine I need to rebuild. I'm looking for parts (gaskets, o-rings, seals) and technical information such as torque specs and clearances etc. can someone point me to either a sympathetic dealer or service shop or some online info?|||last resort, buy the vehicle service manual. those kinds of information are not free, you know.
How do I buy a smart car if there are no local dealers?
The nearest dealer is over 100 miles away.|||You don't. Even if you buy one, who will service it? Do you think the local garage can fix that overpriced golf cart? Not a chance.
Seriously, they aren't very smart anyway. Compared to a Hyundai Accent they are little (if any) cheaper, have half the room, are much slower, any mileage advantage is offset by the fact that premium is recommended in them. They also ride and handle worse, and will suck in the snow since they are rear wheel drive. They aren't as safe either.
if you like how they look, wait for the Scion iQ to show up at your Scion dealer, similar styling but much more room, all around better car.
http://www.scion.com/#/iQ|||Go to your local mercedes dealership. Penske automotive's contract to distribute the smarts through a independent dealer network has been terminated and Mercedes-Benz is the new sole distributor. Now many, if not most, MB dealers can sell and maintain the smart fortwo. The cheapest Hyundai Accent with an auto trans is $16k. The fortwo starts at $12.5 with the automated manual trans. It also gets the best mpg of any gas only (non-hybrid) car in america. And don't listen to Pmack about the snow either. The reason most front wheel drive cars do better in snow is because the weight of the engine is over the drive wheels. In the smart the engine is in the back so it has the same advantage as a FWD front engined car. Honestly as a rule don't listen to the people on Y!A because they have never even driven the smart. As to the IQ it starts at 16k and has less room than the smart. The car is only a foot or two longer than the smart but they shoved in a back seat so all the seats are much more cramped. Its a 3+1 meaning 3 adults and 1 child because the backseat is so small. And because the backseat is there there is almost no trunk where the smart has a surprisingly large trunk. The smart is a great car that is surprisingly large on the inside and I would recommend it completely.|||if you cant get a smart car try a horse i hear their smart or maybe a ad on Craig list or write the dealership,tell him your problem or call your local rep and tell him paint it on your drive way paint it on your roof tell your neighbor put a note in a bottle and throw it into the ocean.throw a fit say i demand a smart car.
Seriously, they aren't very smart anyway. Compared to a Hyundai Accent they are little (if any) cheaper, have half the room, are much slower, any mileage advantage is offset by the fact that premium is recommended in them. They also ride and handle worse, and will suck in the snow since they are rear wheel drive. They aren't as safe either.
if you like how they look, wait for the Scion iQ to show up at your Scion dealer, similar styling but much more room, all around better car.
http://www.scion.com/#/iQ|||Go to your local mercedes dealership. Penske automotive's contract to distribute the smarts through a independent dealer network has been terminated and Mercedes-Benz is the new sole distributor. Now many, if not most, MB dealers can sell and maintain the smart fortwo. The cheapest Hyundai Accent with an auto trans is $16k. The fortwo starts at $12.5 with the automated manual trans. It also gets the best mpg of any gas only (non-hybrid) car in america. And don't listen to Pmack about the snow either. The reason most front wheel drive cars do better in snow is because the weight of the engine is over the drive wheels. In the smart the engine is in the back so it has the same advantage as a FWD front engined car. Honestly as a rule don't listen to the people on Y!A because they have never even driven the smart. As to the IQ it starts at 16k and has less room than the smart. The car is only a foot or two longer than the smart but they shoved in a back seat so all the seats are much more cramped. Its a 3+1 meaning 3 adults and 1 child because the backseat is so small. And because the backseat is there there is almost no trunk where the smart has a surprisingly large trunk. The smart is a great car that is surprisingly large on the inside and I would recommend it completely.|||if you cant get a smart car try a horse i hear their smart or maybe a ad on Craig list or write the dealership,tell him your problem or call your local rep and tell him paint it on your drive way paint it on your roof tell your neighbor put a note in a bottle and throw it into the ocean.throw a fit say i demand a smart car.
Do buying that New Smart car is a good idea to buy?
ok know no one owns this car yet but soon ok i know it gets really grate gass millage but is it a good car? and is a good idea to buy this car? then ret it?|||I HAVE SEEN THESE VEHICLE ON THE ROADS AND FOR THE MOST PART THEY LOOK VERY DANGEROUS AND THE BAD PART IS TWO PEOPLE BARELY SEEM TO FIT IN IT.
THE GOOD SIDE I GUESS IS OF YOU ARE IN AN ACCIDENT YOUR FAMILY WONT HAVE TO PURCHASE A COFFIN.
GOOD LUCK AND DRIVE SAFE.|||Well first off, if you have a girlfriend, I wouldn't get that car LOL. No seriously though, it is really tiny and funny looking. I wouldn't get on that thing at all. The only good thing about it maybe that it is good on gas, but it is so tiny it looks like the wind can blow it off the road if you go pass 40 LOL. Then again, if it is for you and it is your style, then get it. Don't let anyone knock you down. You are going to be the one driving it after all. I do doubt is a safe car, look at it, it's a death trap!|||The smart car fared well in the European NCAP crash tests. http://www.theaa.com/allaboutcars/ncap/n鈥?/a>
This page from the smart website identifies the safety features of the car. http://www.thesmart.ca/index.cfm?id=6846
I've driven mine for over a year now, including a few long highway trips, and have always found the car to handle well even in poor road conditions. I regularly drive winding mountain highways with lots of logging trucks and have no concerns about the safety of the car.|||well it is a veey safe car in an aciddent
what the heck inspecor cluseau uses one
THE GOOD SIDE I GUESS IS OF YOU ARE IN AN ACCIDENT YOUR FAMILY WONT HAVE TO PURCHASE A COFFIN.
GOOD LUCK AND DRIVE SAFE.|||Well first off, if you have a girlfriend, I wouldn't get that car LOL. No seriously though, it is really tiny and funny looking. I wouldn't get on that thing at all. The only good thing about it maybe that it is good on gas, but it is so tiny it looks like the wind can blow it off the road if you go pass 40 LOL. Then again, if it is for you and it is your style, then get it. Don't let anyone knock you down. You are going to be the one driving it after all. I do doubt is a safe car, look at it, it's a death trap!|||The smart car fared well in the European NCAP crash tests. http://www.theaa.com/allaboutcars/ncap/n鈥?/a>
This page from the smart website identifies the safety features of the car. http://www.thesmart.ca/index.cfm?id=6846
I've driven mine for over a year now, including a few long highway trips, and have always found the car to handle well even in poor road conditions. I regularly drive winding mountain highways with lots of logging trucks and have no concerns about the safety of the car.|||well it is a veey safe car in an aciddent
what the heck inspecor cluseau uses one
How does the smart car feel on the high way?
i test drove a smart car the other day. It felt responsive on the streets but i have no idea how it holds up on teh highway.|||Mine handles highway drives just fine. It's comfortable on a long trip, and has no trouble keeping up to highway speeds.|||small and inefficient
Is the price of a Smart car justified?
I'm thinking of buying one and can't determine how much of the cost is due to its uniqueness, compared to its qualities as a car. Some say you pay a lot for what you get. Do size, gas mileage, and quality account for the cost? How will the resell value be over the coming years?|||The consensus is that you have to be willing live with a lot of trade offs. The Smart car is small, in a collision with another vehicle that is bigger than it (which is every other car on the road) the laws of physics dictate the the Smart will get the worse end of the encounter. Smart likes to tout their safety cage, but you cannot engineer your way out of the laws of physics. The Smart is also quite slow. The transmission has been widely criticized. Consumer Reports, who normally champion small economical cars was not impressed with the Smart in the least.
What you do get is good fuel mileage (though not much better than more substantial cars like the Honda Fit or Toyota Yaris. You get good room for two, and you get great maneuverability and easy parking.
IMHO it's not worth the trade-offs. I would go with the Honda Fit/Jazz before I would have a Smart.|||Smart's main characteristic is its size: It can fit everywhere, and that is a clear advantage if your are living in a European city, for example, where finding parking space is a daily battle. For that only, Europeans are mostly willing to pay a bigger than usual price. Of course, that doesn't apply in the same way for the United States market, where parking space is easier to find. For its other attributes, gas mileage is a big plus, however, that is exactly what you would expect from an engine that small. The quality of the car is good, given that Smart's parent company is Mercedes Benz. The only big disadvantage the car has, apart from the fact that it only fits 2 people, is that I would not want to be involved in a car accident, and be inside one! I have seen an accident in front of me, and I must say you really need considerable luck.
So, to answer your question, it depends on how much the car's attributes have serious value for you. If, for instance, you don't value flexibility considerably, you have other choices to consider as well.|||The base price of the car is $11,990 for the Pure and $13,990 for the Passion Coupe. There aren't that many cars that are cheaper than this.
The car provides you with 33 MPG city and 41 MPG highway. Very high for a non-hybrid car. Yes, a hybrid car gives you more MPG than a Smart Car, but the price is almost double that of a Smart Car.
If you go to the Smart Car forum, you can see what users have to say about their cars.
http://www.smartcarofamerica.com/forums/
As for used car prices, the price varies, but the following web page should give you some idea.
http://www.usedcarsplus.com/usedcars/11-鈥?/a>
By the way, there are lots of Bozos here who have never driven the Smart Car and know nothing about it, but are more than willing to tell you every bad thing they can make up. Go direct to the Smart Car Forum and get the real facts from real Smart Car owners.
http://www.smartcarofamerica.com/forums|||Companies price their cars based on what they believe people will pay for them, not just on what it costs to build them. The Smart is a trendy look at me car with a waiting list last I heard so....you are going to pay for that. You can get a lot more car for the money with the amount you are going to spend for a Smart...and many of the run of the mill compacts out there come pretty close to the Smarts fuel economy numbers...and will actually make surviving an accident more probable too with the extra sheet metal.|||I see a lot of them on the local used car lots and at the state auto auction. Most are very low mileage good condition. Make me wonder why people are ditching them so soon. The state auto auction is mostly cars that dealers have too many of on their lot so they wholesale them to get rid of them.|||they suck from what ive seen...the fuel mileage isn't that great and they have been dealer price raised by about 6k because of demand......so figure 11k depreciation just driving it off the lot....and they are crappy as far as performance goes....|||they're cool, and they're mercedes, so yeah.|||The highest priced Smart in my area is $17,900 which includes the convertible top.
Size: Holy crap I can put it in my truck. I saw one once at a fuel station and I almost hit it since I couldn't tell it was parked in a spot. You know how you don't often see small cars in between normal and large size vehicles. I did get to sit in one and I admit they have room to drive them but that's it. If you are just driving to work and then back home I guess the Smart would do but don't think you are going rollback shopping at Wal-Mart in it.
Interior dimensions:
Front Hip Room (in) 45.4
Front Head Room (in) 39.7
Front Leg Room (in) 41.2
Passenger Capacity 2
Front Shoulder Room (in) 48.0
Passenger Volume (ft鲁) 45.4
In comparison with another vehicle I provide you with the following feedback: Comparison Car - 2009 Chevy Cobalt 2 dr LS package.
As compared to SMART:
+ 4.1 in overall front hip room (Cobalt has 4.1 (in) advantage in hip room)
- 1.0 in overall head room (Cobalt has 1.0 (in) less headroom)
- 2.5 in front leg room (Cobalt has 2.5 (in) of less leg room)
+ 37.6 volume (Cobalt has 37.6 (ft鲁) of passenger volume)
So in comparison the SMART has about the same room or better than a commonly operated Chevy*
*I do not like Cobalts and I do not wish them on anybody. I am simply using the Cobalt for interior dimension comparison.
Safety: the Smart does come with typical and optional safety equipment. ESC, CBC, ABS, ASC and ETC combination, driver and passenger airbags, modular steel frame, and hill start assist are all available on the Smart models. Most importantly, to me, they have a collapsible steering column in case you have had a head on collision which traps you in the Smart. These options will decrease your insurance.
Pay a lot for what you get? Well you are buying a SMART. I don't know what all the hype is about. My point is there is a market for them and people are buying them. They are semi-new so they will be marked up a little. I now work for the DOD but while I was a student in college I worked for Cadillac dealership. We couldn't sell very many Cadillacs but we sold a ton of the Chevy Aveo's. They were horrible in appearance and performance but people liked them. It's all a matter of personal preference.
Gas mileage: The EPA claims that SMART cars (both conv. and coupe) should get around 36 MPG avg. Actual users, according to fueleconomy.gov, are reporting fuel usage estimates in the 36.2-37.1 MPG range.
These SMART cars make me scratch my head! See Below:
Prius users are reporting averages of 47.8 MPG -51.6 MPG
Aveo users are reporting averages of 25.2 MPG -34.4 MPG
Focus users are reporting averages of 27.2 MPG- 31.9 MPG
Mazda 3 users are reporting averages of roughly 28.5-30 MPG
I include these comparisons because they are the working mans ( or womans) cars according to the compact cars I see on the highway. They all do roughly the same or better than the SMART and two of them offer more room for storage and a better ride than the SMART. Not to mention the Focus has an outstanding reputation. I cannot justify the cost of the vehicle because it's :fuel efficient: when there are other cars on the road that get better fuel economy and offer more room both for storage and safety.
Depreciation: According to the listing is my area, the 2008's have depreciated between $3,000-$6,000.00 to and average selling price of $11,000-$11, 400. According to a standard depreciation rate of $3,700.00 per year the SMART is depreciating $700.00 less than the rating per year and after 5 years a $16,000 investment will only be worth around $2500-$4,000.00 based n 600000000 conditions. Here's the deal..the depreciation is an average so it included Mercedes and Dodge Neons. Catch my drift? It's not accurate! Your car will be worth what someone is willing to pay for it. Obviously dealerships will offer you less than a straight sale to a consumer. If the fuel crisis continues then your cars value may remain relatively stable. If the cars begin to experience reliability issues, or if they offer too many rebates the cars will decline in value. I always say that the car companies ruin the value of cars as they continue to introduce new models year after year with HUGE cash incentives therefore ruining the value of their older models because everyone wants something new.
Personal opinion: You can invest your money more wisely. Your investment may be good for you but you may have a hard time selling the car therefore taking a big loss at a dealership if you ever trade out of it. If you plan on keeping it forever..hell they are cheap..buy two. I drive a Saab 9-3 turbo so I know whats it feels like to drive a car that doesn't appeal to the general populace. I live in the hills of PA and I avg 30-33 MPG everyday on some of the worst roads in the Northeast. On long trips I can average up to 44 MPG when I am not speeding. I only add this because I drive a 4 dr so-called luxury sedan with all the bells and whistles and I get excellent fuel economy.
What you do get is good fuel mileage (though not much better than more substantial cars like the Honda Fit or Toyota Yaris. You get good room for two, and you get great maneuverability and easy parking.
IMHO it's not worth the trade-offs. I would go with the Honda Fit/Jazz before I would have a Smart.|||Smart's main characteristic is its size: It can fit everywhere, and that is a clear advantage if your are living in a European city, for example, where finding parking space is a daily battle. For that only, Europeans are mostly willing to pay a bigger than usual price. Of course, that doesn't apply in the same way for the United States market, where parking space is easier to find. For its other attributes, gas mileage is a big plus, however, that is exactly what you would expect from an engine that small. The quality of the car is good, given that Smart's parent company is Mercedes Benz. The only big disadvantage the car has, apart from the fact that it only fits 2 people, is that I would not want to be involved in a car accident, and be inside one! I have seen an accident in front of me, and I must say you really need considerable luck.
So, to answer your question, it depends on how much the car's attributes have serious value for you. If, for instance, you don't value flexibility considerably, you have other choices to consider as well.|||The base price of the car is $11,990 for the Pure and $13,990 for the Passion Coupe. There aren't that many cars that are cheaper than this.
The car provides you with 33 MPG city and 41 MPG highway. Very high for a non-hybrid car. Yes, a hybrid car gives you more MPG than a Smart Car, but the price is almost double that of a Smart Car.
If you go to the Smart Car forum, you can see what users have to say about their cars.
http://www.smartcarofamerica.com/forums/
As for used car prices, the price varies, but the following web page should give you some idea.
http://www.usedcarsplus.com/usedcars/11-鈥?/a>
By the way, there are lots of Bozos here who have never driven the Smart Car and know nothing about it, but are more than willing to tell you every bad thing they can make up. Go direct to the Smart Car Forum and get the real facts from real Smart Car owners.
http://www.smartcarofamerica.com/forums|||Companies price their cars based on what they believe people will pay for them, not just on what it costs to build them. The Smart is a trendy look at me car with a waiting list last I heard so....you are going to pay for that. You can get a lot more car for the money with the amount you are going to spend for a Smart...and many of the run of the mill compacts out there come pretty close to the Smarts fuel economy numbers...and will actually make surviving an accident more probable too with the extra sheet metal.|||I see a lot of them on the local used car lots and at the state auto auction. Most are very low mileage good condition. Make me wonder why people are ditching them so soon. The state auto auction is mostly cars that dealers have too many of on their lot so they wholesale them to get rid of them.|||they suck from what ive seen...the fuel mileage isn't that great and they have been dealer price raised by about 6k because of demand......so figure 11k depreciation just driving it off the lot....and they are crappy as far as performance goes....|||they're cool, and they're mercedes, so yeah.|||The highest priced Smart in my area is $17,900 which includes the convertible top.
Size: Holy crap I can put it in my truck. I saw one once at a fuel station and I almost hit it since I couldn't tell it was parked in a spot. You know how you don't often see small cars in between normal and large size vehicles. I did get to sit in one and I admit they have room to drive them but that's it. If you are just driving to work and then back home I guess the Smart would do but don't think you are going rollback shopping at Wal-Mart in it.
Interior dimensions:
Front Hip Room (in) 45.4
Front Head Room (in) 39.7
Front Leg Room (in) 41.2
Passenger Capacity 2
Front Shoulder Room (in) 48.0
Passenger Volume (ft鲁) 45.4
In comparison with another vehicle I provide you with the following feedback: Comparison Car - 2009 Chevy Cobalt 2 dr LS package.
As compared to SMART:
+ 4.1 in overall front hip room (Cobalt has 4.1 (in) advantage in hip room)
- 1.0 in overall head room (Cobalt has 1.0 (in) less headroom)
- 2.5 in front leg room (Cobalt has 2.5 (in) of less leg room)
+ 37.6 volume (Cobalt has 37.6 (ft鲁) of passenger volume)
So in comparison the SMART has about the same room or better than a commonly operated Chevy*
*I do not like Cobalts and I do not wish them on anybody. I am simply using the Cobalt for interior dimension comparison.
Safety: the Smart does come with typical and optional safety equipment. ESC, CBC, ABS, ASC and ETC combination, driver and passenger airbags, modular steel frame, and hill start assist are all available on the Smart models. Most importantly, to me, they have a collapsible steering column in case you have had a head on collision which traps you in the Smart. These options will decrease your insurance.
Pay a lot for what you get? Well you are buying a SMART. I don't know what all the hype is about. My point is there is a market for them and people are buying them. They are semi-new so they will be marked up a little. I now work for the DOD but while I was a student in college I worked for Cadillac dealership. We couldn't sell very many Cadillacs but we sold a ton of the Chevy Aveo's. They were horrible in appearance and performance but people liked them. It's all a matter of personal preference.
Gas mileage: The EPA claims that SMART cars (both conv. and coupe) should get around 36 MPG avg. Actual users, according to fueleconomy.gov, are reporting fuel usage estimates in the 36.2-37.1 MPG range.
These SMART cars make me scratch my head! See Below:
Prius users are reporting averages of 47.8 MPG -51.6 MPG
Aveo users are reporting averages of 25.2 MPG -34.4 MPG
Focus users are reporting averages of 27.2 MPG- 31.9 MPG
Mazda 3 users are reporting averages of roughly 28.5-30 MPG
I include these comparisons because they are the working mans ( or womans) cars according to the compact cars I see on the highway. They all do roughly the same or better than the SMART and two of them offer more room for storage and a better ride than the SMART. Not to mention the Focus has an outstanding reputation. I cannot justify the cost of the vehicle because it's :fuel efficient: when there are other cars on the road that get better fuel economy and offer more room both for storage and safety.
Depreciation: According to the listing is my area, the 2008's have depreciated between $3,000-$6,000.00 to and average selling price of $11,000-$11, 400. According to a standard depreciation rate of $3,700.00 per year the SMART is depreciating $700.00 less than the rating per year and after 5 years a $16,000 investment will only be worth around $2500-$4,000.00 based n 600000000 conditions. Here's the deal..the depreciation is an average so it included Mercedes and Dodge Neons. Catch my drift? It's not accurate! Your car will be worth what someone is willing to pay for it. Obviously dealerships will offer you less than a straight sale to a consumer. If the fuel crisis continues then your cars value may remain relatively stable. If the cars begin to experience reliability issues, or if they offer too many rebates the cars will decline in value. I always say that the car companies ruin the value of cars as they continue to introduce new models year after year with HUGE cash incentives therefore ruining the value of their older models because everyone wants something new.
Personal opinion: You can invest your money more wisely. Your investment may be good for you but you may have a hard time selling the car therefore taking a big loss at a dealership if you ever trade out of it. If you plan on keeping it forever..hell they are cheap..buy two. I drive a Saab 9-3 turbo so I know whats it feels like to drive a car that doesn't appeal to the general populace. I live in the hills of PA and I avg 30-33 MPG everyday on some of the worst roads in the Northeast. On long trips I can average up to 44 MPG when I am not speeding. I only add this because I drive a 4 dr so-called luxury sedan with all the bells and whistles and I get excellent fuel economy.
Am I too tall for a smart car?
I am just over 6 foot tall and very wide. Could I get into a smart car?|||Don't worry about fitting in the Smart Fortwo. I know that it will certainly fit you just right. I am 6'1" and I fit in my small-yet-roomy, blue-colored Smart Fortwo "Passion Coupe package" just fine, and still have a few inches of headroom and lots of elbow room to spare.
The Smart Fortwo is:
8.8 feet long (you can usually fit 2 Smart Fortwos in an average parking spot!)
5.1 feet tall (the Smart still has as much headroom as most luxury cars!)
5.1 feet wide (this can fit two 6 foot 5 inch plus people side by side with enough shoulder room to spare!)
Note for the one saying it is not prepared for freeway driving:
The Smart Fortwo's 70hp/68lb-ft 1.0-liter engine may seem slow power-wise, yet it can go up to 90 miles per hour. And even though it accelerates somewhat slower than most sub-compact cars (around 12.8 seconds), still that is enough to drive on the freeways too!
Sure it is smaller than most cars in the USA (even the Toyota Yaris), but it has loads of safety features to make it as safe as any larger car.|||sure = u can fit.
but the smart car
is not ready for the real world.
if you want to drive it around town that's ok
but if you need to travel on the interstate your in for a rude awakening.
get a Honda fit
1. Honda Fit (base) - $15,385
2. Mazda 3i Sport (sedan) - $17,205
3. Hyundai Elantra SE - $17,945
4. Volkswagen Jetta S - $19,865
5. Hyundai Sonata GLS (4-cyl.) - $20,095
(consumer reports)|||Yes.
I am 6 foot tall and wide and I fit. There was lots of room.
The newer smaller cars have more headroom than big cars.
That is because they made the smaller cars taller, but thinner in width and shorter in length.
Smaller cars are taller so that they have more room.|||I am from Los Angeles, I have lived in Sydney, Australia, and currently live in Germany. Both countries have had the smart car for years. I was recently in the US on vacation and saw that you can now purchase these cars there, I think it's a brilliant idea. First of all, YES, you can fit in it, Germans love this car and I see people over 6 feet tall getting in them all the time. Smart cars ARE in fact ready for the 'real world' because they have existed in it for quite some time. I see them on the Autobahn from time to time, and while they are in the slow lane, they do just fine. If you want one, more power to you. The one offered in the states currently resembles what we call the "SmartForTwo" in Europe, we also have a "SmartForFour" and a little Smart roadster type vehicle. So keep you eyes out for those as well, they will inevitably live stateside.
The Smart Fortwo is:
8.8 feet long (you can usually fit 2 Smart Fortwos in an average parking spot!)
5.1 feet tall (the Smart still has as much headroom as most luxury cars!)
5.1 feet wide (this can fit two 6 foot 5 inch plus people side by side with enough shoulder room to spare!)
Note for the one saying it is not prepared for freeway driving:
The Smart Fortwo's 70hp/68lb-ft 1.0-liter engine may seem slow power-wise, yet it can go up to 90 miles per hour. And even though it accelerates somewhat slower than most sub-compact cars (around 12.8 seconds), still that is enough to drive on the freeways too!
Sure it is smaller than most cars in the USA (even the Toyota Yaris), but it has loads of safety features to make it as safe as any larger car.|||sure = u can fit.
but the smart car
is not ready for the real world.
if you want to drive it around town that's ok
but if you need to travel on the interstate your in for a rude awakening.
get a Honda fit
1. Honda Fit (base) - $15,385
2. Mazda 3i Sport (sedan) - $17,205
3. Hyundai Elantra SE - $17,945
4. Volkswagen Jetta S - $19,865
5. Hyundai Sonata GLS (4-cyl.) - $20,095
(consumer reports)|||Yes.
I am 6 foot tall and wide and I fit. There was lots of room.
The newer smaller cars have more headroom than big cars.
That is because they made the smaller cars taller, but thinner in width and shorter in length.
Smaller cars are taller so that they have more room.|||I am from Los Angeles, I have lived in Sydney, Australia, and currently live in Germany. Both countries have had the smart car for years. I was recently in the US on vacation and saw that you can now purchase these cars there, I think it's a brilliant idea. First of all, YES, you can fit in it, Germans love this car and I see people over 6 feet tall getting in them all the time. Smart cars ARE in fact ready for the 'real world' because they have existed in it for quite some time. I see them on the Autobahn from time to time, and while they are in the slow lane, they do just fine. If you want one, more power to you. The one offered in the states currently resembles what we call the "SmartForTwo" in Europe, we also have a "SmartForFour" and a little Smart roadster type vehicle. So keep you eyes out for those as well, they will inevitably live stateside.
Where can i rent a smart car in houston, tx?
i've checked enterprise and a few other rental companies....does anyone know (for a fact) of a place that rents smart cars?|||I've rented economy cars from Enterprise before, the one near Intercontinental airport.
http://www.enterprise.com/car_rental/hom鈥?/a>
http://www.enterprise.com/car_rental/hom鈥?/a>
Anyone know what the going rate for car insurance for a smart car in florida is?
west bradenton is my area|||No, we don't. You'll have to call an agent to find out.|||Most insurance companies now charge a very reasonable price for smart cars, but the original low price provider overall was Liberty Mutual. Get a quote from them in order to keep your current insurance company honest. Cars are rated by the insurance industry on a scale from 7 to 23, I believe. Those at 7 are the lowest cost to insure. The smart coupes are rated at 8 and the convertibles are rated at 13. This should be a very low rate for you.
Ron Gaus, asmartcar.com, St. Louis
Ron Gaus, asmartcar.com, St. Louis
Where can I buy a Smart car in the Massachusetts?
I'm not old enough to drive yet I just want to know because my brother is. I don't want him to have to pay such high gas prices so I was curious where to get one. Serious answers only plz.|||there are other cars that are more practical and your gas mileage wont be much worse, camry hybrid and the escape hybrid are both great on gas and much more practical.
But if you are still keen on the smart car inquire at your local mercedes - benz dealership they should be able to locate one for you, or at least tell you where to go, you might hae to out of state though.|||I wouldn't get one. Like the answer above, there are many other cars that get the same gas mileage such as the Ford Focus that gets up to 35 mpg: http://www.fordvehicles.com/cars/focus/?鈥?/a> (I heard the Smart Car only gets up to 33 mpg). Also, how do you think the Smart Car will stand up against a Hummer H2 if in an accident? That thing will get dinged around like a pinball.|||http://www.smartusa.com/
Before you buy one, you need to try one....
I hope you and your brother like little spaces....
But if you are still keen on the smart car inquire at your local mercedes - benz dealership they should be able to locate one for you, or at least tell you where to go, you might hae to out of state though.|||I wouldn't get one. Like the answer above, there are many other cars that get the same gas mileage such as the Ford Focus that gets up to 35 mpg: http://www.fordvehicles.com/cars/focus/?鈥?/a> (I heard the Smart Car only gets up to 33 mpg). Also, how do you think the Smart Car will stand up against a Hummer H2 if in an accident? That thing will get dinged around like a pinball.|||http://www.smartusa.com/
Before you buy one, you need to try one....
I hope you and your brother like little spaces....
I need a name for my new SMART car?
Ive been told by my neighbour I should name my car, any ideas?
Ive got a royal blue and silver, 2002, smart fortwo passion cabriolet and I love it. Any ideas for names?|||K.I.T.T|||just call it boris.
Ive got a royal blue and silver, 2002, smart fortwo passion cabriolet and I love it. Any ideas for names?|||K.I.T.T|||just call it boris.
I am looking to buy my first car and I was looking at the Smart cars? any opinions?
Any other suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.|||well first off if your not on the waiting list already, your looking at a 6 month to 1 year wait.
they are not hwy cars, if you just do short trips or city driving it's ok but forget any long commutes or real drives.
you would be much better off with a Honda Fit
avoid the Toyota yaris it's not even close to the Fit.|||Don't get a SMART car. someone in an SUV will destroy it if you ever got into an accident. Better off on a bike driving in the middle of the road the way some of those suburban moms drive while guzzling Prozac and vodka.|||it will save u a lot of money on gas. but u get in an accident ur basically dead cuz its so small. but if u dont die, the money u saved from gas can pay for ur hospital bills if u get hit. so it all works out. or u can just not crash. personally i think they are ugly, but i would still drive one, but just for laughs.|||well depends wot type off car u want small or any? how much u looking 2 spend?
well id say mark 4 golf VW best car if ur looking 2 customize
or if not polo's, benz A-class, renault clio, great cars
they are not hwy cars, if you just do short trips or city driving it's ok but forget any long commutes or real drives.
you would be much better off with a Honda Fit
avoid the Toyota yaris it's not even close to the Fit.|||Don't get a SMART car. someone in an SUV will destroy it if you ever got into an accident. Better off on a bike driving in the middle of the road the way some of those suburban moms drive while guzzling Prozac and vodka.|||it will save u a lot of money on gas. but u get in an accident ur basically dead cuz its so small. but if u dont die, the money u saved from gas can pay for ur hospital bills if u get hit. so it all works out. or u can just not crash. personally i think they are ugly, but i would still drive one, but just for laughs.|||well depends wot type off car u want small or any? how much u looking 2 spend?
well id say mark 4 golf VW best car if ur looking 2 customize
or if not polo's, benz A-class, renault clio, great cars
Can anyone tell me their experience with their wait for their Smart Car?
I ordered my car in June 2008. I was let to believe you configure it shortly before it comes to you. Since I have configured it, my delivery date estimated has been unavailable. Last it said was August 2009-October 2009.
Can anyone tell me about their experience?
Thanks in advance.|||I have never ordered smart, but I really hope that your waiting will soon be over. Best wishes :)|||1. First of all, you should know that it is called Smart Fortwo.
NOT Smart Car.
No one says Honda car or Ford car or Mitsubishi car. It just does not make sense.
2. It only seats 2 people and the trunk is small.
3. It is only available with a weird and slow shifting automatic transmission.
4. It only uses Premium fuel. 91 octane and better.
5. With a 1.0 Liter 70HP engine and lightweight, it ONLY gets 41mpg highway at best. A more powerful, more reliable, more practical Honda Civic could get 40mpg with careful driving.
6. They are expensive to maintain and fix. Smart is a company owned by Mercedes Benz. That means the same costs and premium fuel.
7. This is NOT a new car. The Smart Fortwo came out in 1998 in Europe. The 2008 or 2009 Smart Fortwo is the same as the 1998 Smart Fortwo. It is a 10 year old design.
8. Very very slow. 0-60mph in 12.6 seconds. Top Speed of 93mph.
The only good things about this car is its safety. Its round frame design makes it a very safe car And it is very easy to park.|||Oh it was SWEEEEEET!
Can anyone tell me about their experience?
Thanks in advance.|||I have never ordered smart, but I really hope that your waiting will soon be over. Best wishes :)|||1. First of all, you should know that it is called Smart Fortwo.
NOT Smart Car.
No one says Honda car or Ford car or Mitsubishi car. It just does not make sense.
2. It only seats 2 people and the trunk is small.
3. It is only available with a weird and slow shifting automatic transmission.
4. It only uses Premium fuel. 91 octane and better.
5. With a 1.0 Liter 70HP engine and lightweight, it ONLY gets 41mpg highway at best. A more powerful, more reliable, more practical Honda Civic could get 40mpg with careful driving.
6. They are expensive to maintain and fix. Smart is a company owned by Mercedes Benz. That means the same costs and premium fuel.
7. This is NOT a new car. The Smart Fortwo came out in 1998 in Europe. The 2008 or 2009 Smart Fortwo is the same as the 1998 Smart Fortwo. It is a 10 year old design.
8. Very very slow. 0-60mph in 12.6 seconds. Top Speed of 93mph.
The only good things about this car is its safety. Its round frame design makes it a very safe car And it is very easy to park.|||Oh it was SWEEEEEET!
Insurance companies that cover the SMART car in the USA?
I am in the market for a car and found the SMART car, it hasnt come over the pond yet, but im really interested in purchasing it when it does. a few things first im a first time driver. is this a good car for a first time driver. second anyone drive the smart car any pointers like are you happy with it, ect and third in teh USA does anyone know if any insurance companies will cover a first time driver with a SMART car. thanks a bunch|||I've seen this smart car and i too am considering it. I should think the big ins cos will cover it provided it meets all the safety standards in the U.S. There's been little to no hype about this car in the U.S. I am waiting for a complete review by Edmunds.com. As far as it being a good car for a first time driver, I should think so. Good luck.|||i go for "look insurance" or" LA insurance"they are funny names but Look is probably cheaper . they don't go by points they just give u insurance that are just liable.
i highly recomend full coverage on cars except for trucks cause they have good metal bumper not fiber etc so they do goods and wont even get damage that much . but for others cars i would say get full coverage cause when u hit it on the curb u would at least need a radiator ball joints tie rod bumper and u name it plus maybe 2 front tires and rims .|||Any insurance company should cover this car like any other car. I've seen the smart car in the US so I don't know where you got that info from. I've also seen those cars in Germany, those suckers are fast. Probably would be a good one for first time driver, but they're small, don't plan on hauling alot of friends or anything else for that matter.|||For insurance if you go online and do a insurance quote from a comparison site it will compare prices for you then you look at the cheapest and there you have it, here's a good one that can help with that http://gsx1.com/InsuranceComparison.html
btw, this is WAY more practical than a Smart car
http://www.chevrolet.co.uk/matiz/matiz-i鈥?/a>
i highly recomend full coverage on cars except for trucks cause they have good metal bumper not fiber etc so they do goods and wont even get damage that much . but for others cars i would say get full coverage cause when u hit it on the curb u would at least need a radiator ball joints tie rod bumper and u name it plus maybe 2 front tires and rims .|||Any insurance company should cover this car like any other car. I've seen the smart car in the US so I don't know where you got that info from. I've also seen those cars in Germany, those suckers are fast. Probably would be a good one for first time driver, but they're small, don't plan on hauling alot of friends or anything else for that matter.|||For insurance if you go online and do a insurance quote from a comparison site it will compare prices for you then you look at the cheapest and there you have it, here's a good one that can help with that http://gsx1.com/InsuranceComparison.html
btw, this is WAY more practical than a Smart car
http://www.chevrolet.co.uk/matiz/matiz-i鈥?/a>
Fixing a smart car engine with loss of compression in one cyclinder?
On returning from a long drive south london, the engine management light came on and I lost power. A local garage diagnosed loss of compression in one cyclinder and a damaged spark plug in that cylinder but said the enginer would need to be opened up. Can anyone advise where I can get the engine opened up for a reasonable price in south east london.|||A damaged spark plug usually is an indication of a thrown connecting rod bearing.Probably put a hole in the piston and scored the crankshaft.Could of damaged the valves,pushrods,lifters,etc.
Complete rebuild = $$$$$$$$$$$$
|||sorry but it sounds like you will be needing to rebuild your motor or put in a new one, that won't be cheap ANYWHERE.
Complete rebuild = $$$$$$$$$$$$
|||sorry but it sounds like you will be needing to rebuild your motor or put in a new one, that won't be cheap ANYWHERE.
What company makes the smart car?
What company makes the smart car?|||Made and sold by Mercedes. Interesting side note though...the 1.0 litre 3-cylinder gas engine ( the only one available in North America ) is sourced from Mitsubishi.|||Mercedes Benz makes Smart Cars.
Daimler Chrysler is a jointventure of Mercedes and Chrysler.|||Daimler AG|||Daimler AG based in Germany
Daimler Chrysler is a jointventure of Mercedes and Chrysler.|||Daimler AG|||Daimler AG based in Germany
Where are the AC ports on a SMART car?
On the SMART FORTWO car, where would you find the A/C ports to charge the A/C?|||Here RTFM - Owners Manual!
http://safemanuals.com/user-guide-instru鈥?/a>|||I don't know for that particular vehicle. What you can do is follow the lines from the compressor and they will lead you to the ports. I have found them anywhere from on top where they can be easily located to inside passenger fender wells, to in front of the condenser. good luck|||Here's a link to the Smart Car of America website.I use their forum to learn interesting things about mine.
http://www.smartcarofamerica.com/
http://safemanuals.com/user-guide-instru鈥?/a>|||I don't know for that particular vehicle. What you can do is follow the lines from the compressor and they will lead you to the ports. I have found them anywhere from on top where they can be easily located to inside passenger fender wells, to in front of the condenser. good luck|||Here's a link to the Smart Car of America website.I use their forum to learn interesting things about mine.
http://www.smartcarofamerica.com/
How can I replace the headlamp in a Smart Car Passion 2002?
I can't find the manual anywhere, and don't even know how to get to the unit!|||It does not matter what year or engine size
1 unclip the grille and unscrew the aerial
2 Undo the nylon screw on the plastic triangle with "Passion" badge on it and remove the triangle
3 unscrew the TWO screws in the middle of the bracket behind the grill
4 uncsrew 4 screws in each door shut and 1 where you took off that triangle thing
5 Now you have to carefully remove the front plastic panels of the car. There is two clippped parts under the front of the car once released give it a pull. Then with the doors closed pull the sides out a bit and then pull them away from just in front of the screen. Don't go mad because you have to reach in and disconnect the foglights and indicators and if you go mad you will break the fog light
Now you can see how to get the headlight out it's straight forward from here.
Before you put the front back on. Remove the side indicators and as you refit the front poke the wires through the hole, it will make it easier than fumbling to connect them.
It's all a bit of jiggling around but not hard once youv'e done it|||Brilliant. Tried it and it worked. The only part that involved some fussing was the "grill removal". There is a bunch of pressure clips holding it in place and these are releases with a thin slot screwdriver. Other than that, flawless ....thanks!
|||What is the year -make-model -liter of your engine?-You don't have any info hun!
1 unclip the grille and unscrew the aerial
2 Undo the nylon screw on the plastic triangle with "Passion" badge on it and remove the triangle
3 unscrew the TWO screws in the middle of the bracket behind the grill
4 uncsrew 4 screws in each door shut and 1 where you took off that triangle thing
5 Now you have to carefully remove the front plastic panels of the car. There is two clippped parts under the front of the car once released give it a pull. Then with the doors closed pull the sides out a bit and then pull them away from just in front of the screen. Don't go mad because you have to reach in and disconnect the foglights and indicators and if you go mad you will break the fog light
Now you can see how to get the headlight out it's straight forward from here.
Before you put the front back on. Remove the side indicators and as you refit the front poke the wires through the hole, it will make it easier than fumbling to connect them.
It's all a bit of jiggling around but not hard once youv'e done it|||Brilliant. Tried it and it worked. The only part that involved some fussing was the "grill removal". There is a bunch of pressure clips holding it in place and these are releases with a thin slot screwdriver. Other than that, flawless ....thanks!
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|||What is the year -make-model -liter of your engine?-You don't have any info hun!
Is there any place in the US where you can buy the European made Smart car.?
Checkout the site http://www.smart.com to learn more about the car. I am specifically hoping to find a dealer who has one in stock in the US ready for purchase.|||These guys in Seattle, Green Car Co, are way into energy efficient autos. Gas only, no diesel as of yet.|||Cool! Green Car Company!
|||I was able to find one other company that claims to have gotten the necessary approvals to do conversions:
http://www.gnkauto.com/smart.html|||Have you already checked with this guys ?
http://www.zapworld.com/
Here they say that the americanized version is coming soon:
http://www.zapworld.com/cars/smartCar.as鈥?/a>
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|||I was able to find one other company that claims to have gotten the necessary approvals to do conversions:
http://www.gnkauto.com/smart.html|||Have you already checked with this guys ?
http://www.zapworld.com/
Here they say that the americanized version is coming soon:
http://www.zapworld.com/cars/smartCar.as鈥?/a>
How long is the wait currently for a smart car?
and how much can i negotiate for a new one?|||Waiting list right now is about 9 months.
You will pay MSRP. The dealer will not negotiate.
Edit - Many people are selling them on ebay, but you have to make sure to watch for scams and you may end up paying over MSRP.
Personally, I don't think it is worth it. I know they are kindof a niche thing and a little cool, but I would go get a good deal on another vehicle like the Honda Fit or Toyota Yaris. These are more functional vehicles.|||I don't get the thought of needing to use PREMIUM fuel in a 70 horsepower econocar.
That just does not make sense for an alleged budget vehicle.
You will pay MSRP. The dealer will not negotiate.
Edit - Many people are selling them on ebay, but you have to make sure to watch for scams and you may end up paying over MSRP.
Personally, I don't think it is worth it. I know they are kindof a niche thing and a little cool, but I would go get a good deal on another vehicle like the Honda Fit or Toyota Yaris. These are more functional vehicles.|||I don't get the thought of needing to use PREMIUM fuel in a 70 horsepower econocar.
That just does not make sense for an alleged budget vehicle.
What is the monthly Payments on a Smart Car?
Does anyone know what is the average monthly payment on those cars?
How many years can you finance them?
How much down payment do you need?|||Monthly payment depends on amount financed and interest rate.
Those cars sell here for 16 grand for the basic car and according to the newspaper with zero down it is $275 per month for 6 years at zero interest
russ|||The monthly payment depends on alot of things. 1-the amount you are financing 2-The credit score you have and the rate for your score 3-downpayment you are willing to put down 4-The lenght of time you want to finance the loan for. Most dealership will ask for a 10% down. You are best to go to your credit union and see if they can finance you and for the amount they will finance. This way you can save money from the dealers.|||depends on your credit score.
If you have good credit probably like 300 a month
How many years can you finance them?
How much down payment do you need?|||Monthly payment depends on amount financed and interest rate.
Those cars sell here for 16 grand for the basic car and according to the newspaper with zero down it is $275 per month for 6 years at zero interest
russ|||The monthly payment depends on alot of things. 1-the amount you are financing 2-The credit score you have and the rate for your score 3-downpayment you are willing to put down 4-The lenght of time you want to finance the loan for. Most dealership will ask for a 10% down. You are best to go to your credit union and see if they can finance you and for the amount they will finance. This way you can save money from the dealers.|||depends on your credit score.
If you have good credit probably like 300 a month
Is the smart car a reliable car?
the smart car is coming out in the usa pretty soon...just wondering if its a reliable car...
also...i know insurance rates are different in other countries but what is the average insurance rate for this car? is it about the same as others?|||The Smart's a reliable wee car. Here in UK it's a similar insurance group to the small Fords, Fiats and Renaults which I guess you don't get over there, put it this way, here it's cheaper to insure than a Golf or Focus.
I also admire you for having the courage to drive such a small, economical car in the land of the 10mpg SUV, or are you just going to have it slung off the back of a Chevy Suburban, like a dinghy on a motor launch?!|||yes but it's just a bit too clever for it's own good.|||I had a Smart car when they first came out, I was living in The Netherlands at the time. Very cool cars if you are always in the city, I really liked mine. I got rid of it when I moved to Germany cause here there are no speed limits and the Smart only runs up to 140km per hour- very slow for Germany. I bought an Audi TT with 224HP|||made by mercedes so yes...but there are no unreliable new cars any more.
insurance rates for small cars tend to be higher in the US due to increased medical bills if you get hit. Conversely in the UK, big engined cars go faster and medical care is free so insurance is cheaper on small cars.|||no its awful its a smart car
also...i know insurance rates are different in other countries but what is the average insurance rate for this car? is it about the same as others?|||The Smart's a reliable wee car. Here in UK it's a similar insurance group to the small Fords, Fiats and Renaults which I guess you don't get over there, put it this way, here it's cheaper to insure than a Golf or Focus.
I also admire you for having the courage to drive such a small, economical car in the land of the 10mpg SUV, or are you just going to have it slung off the back of a Chevy Suburban, like a dinghy on a motor launch?!|||yes but it's just a bit too clever for it's own good.|||I had a Smart car when they first came out, I was living in The Netherlands at the time. Very cool cars if you are always in the city, I really liked mine. I got rid of it when I moved to Germany cause here there are no speed limits and the Smart only runs up to 140km per hour- very slow for Germany. I bought an Audi TT with 224HP|||made by mercedes so yes...but there are no unreliable new cars any more.
insurance rates for small cars tend to be higher in the US due to increased medical bills if you get hit. Conversely in the UK, big engined cars go faster and medical care is free so insurance is cheaper on small cars.|||no its awful its a smart car
What do you think about the SMART car?
I would still have my other car, 2001 VW Jetta
for a guy would the smart car be ok; I live in dc (washington dc) and it would be great on gas and parking.
I think it's cool, very european.
But I just wanted to hear from the rest of you
would it be ok for a guy to drive???|||I like how they look. In the UK they even have a sport model, several models. If I need a commuting car I'd get one over a hybrid. I hate hybrids. There are models in Europe that get 60 mpg, if the US model gets near that I could look past it's size and shape. I just hope it's price is reasonable.|||Small, good on gas and easy to park. Drive carefully and you'll be fine.|||I saw one the other day when I was driving through Simi Valley, CA, in my friend's big ol' gas-guzzling v10 hauling a horse to an event. Those things are weird looking. Even weirder than those geo metros. I'm sure that they get some awesome milage, but they really look hap hazzardous. I'd be too afraid of getting into a wreck if there was a strong wind.
I really wouldn't be too worried if you looked good in the car or not. If you want to save money then it's the way to go. If you want to look good get a muscle car and spend a lot on fuel. :)|||Its a funny looking thing this. I tell you what tho, it is a bit pricey. Its ok for a errand car, but man that's one small and expensive errand car. Oh and by the way, it may have done fine in the head on collision or what not, but I actually seen it being tested on handling and it is comparable to a bag of potatoes. Sorry mate, it just cant handle for nothing, especially when its slippery. So I would be cautious buying it.|||doesn't go faster than 60MPH!
for a guy would the smart car be ok; I live in dc (washington dc) and it would be great on gas and parking.
I think it's cool, very european.
But I just wanted to hear from the rest of you
would it be ok for a guy to drive???|||I like how they look. In the UK they even have a sport model, several models. If I need a commuting car I'd get one over a hybrid. I hate hybrids. There are models in Europe that get 60 mpg, if the US model gets near that I could look past it's size and shape. I just hope it's price is reasonable.|||Small, good on gas and easy to park. Drive carefully and you'll be fine.|||I saw one the other day when I was driving through Simi Valley, CA, in my friend's big ol' gas-guzzling v10 hauling a horse to an event. Those things are weird looking. Even weirder than those geo metros. I'm sure that they get some awesome milage, but they really look hap hazzardous. I'd be too afraid of getting into a wreck if there was a strong wind.
I really wouldn't be too worried if you looked good in the car or not. If you want to save money then it's the way to go. If you want to look good get a muscle car and spend a lot on fuel. :)|||Its a funny looking thing this. I tell you what tho, it is a bit pricey. Its ok for a errand car, but man that's one small and expensive errand car. Oh and by the way, it may have done fine in the head on collision or what not, but I actually seen it being tested on handling and it is comparable to a bag of potatoes. Sorry mate, it just cant handle for nothing, especially when its slippery. So I would be cautious buying it.|||doesn't go faster than 60MPH!
Can I buy a SMART car in Central Florida?
I think the car is built by a company owned by Mercedes...you know the thing (www.smart.com).|||SMART's aren't going on sale in the US until early 2008. The dealer network will be set-up in mid-2007.
http://www.smartusa.com/
Some people paid big bucks to import SMARTS from Germany to the US and bring the SMARTS up to US safety standards. A professor from UMD imported 2 SMARTS and spent tons of money in the process. The US version of the SMART will satisfy all US safety and emissions requirements - just be patient....|||Thank you very much and enjoy your wait. :)
|||Not yet. Probably in another 1 - 2 years you shold be able to. Mercedes hasn't federalized the Smart yet, but are palnning to offer them in the US, probably in 2008 sometime.|||2 points. Lol, seriously though, they aren't available yet, you'll need to wait a few years yet (1 or 2). A company called BlueWire technologies in Sioux Falls, SD has one though, and me and my family are wondering how the hell they managed to get one. (connections anyone?)
http://www.smartusa.com/
Some people paid big bucks to import SMARTS from Germany to the US and bring the SMARTS up to US safety standards. A professor from UMD imported 2 SMARTS and spent tons of money in the process. The US version of the SMART will satisfy all US safety and emissions requirements - just be patient....|||Thank you very much and enjoy your wait. :)
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|||Not yet. Probably in another 1 - 2 years you shold be able to. Mercedes hasn't federalized the Smart yet, but are palnning to offer them in the US, probably in 2008 sometime.|||2 points. Lol, seriously though, they aren't available yet, you'll need to wait a few years yet (1 or 2). A company called BlueWire technologies in Sioux Falls, SD has one though, and me and my family are wondering how the hell they managed to get one. (connections anyone?)
What type of plastic are smart car panels made from?
I understand that they are thermoplastic, but I'd like to know which specific plastic they are made from.|||A little Googling found that the panels are made from a material known as Daplen鈩?ED230HP, supplied by Borealis.|||try asking this at http://trademecars.com/forum
What color does the smart car look the best in?
I want to get the red color so the interior would match, but I do not know. But I think the black looks good too. Help plz.|||Red is the best color|||Have seen 3 colors. The yellow really pops, the black is ok, the blue is ok|||I'd say the legendary yellow.
Get the Tridion Cell to be black and buy the yellow panels to make a bumblebee. The red interior makes it cooler.
The yellow panels were discontinued on 09' models so they are unique to find on 09's
Try to get an Orphan do you don't need to wait so long!
Get the Tridion Cell to be black and buy the yellow panels to make a bumblebee. The red interior makes it cooler.
The yellow panels were discontinued on 09' models so they are unique to find on 09's
Try to get an Orphan do you don't need to wait so long!
How long before we are all driving smart car trucks with a 4 foot bed for work?
I am guessing that soon we will look like the Hamsters in the commercial .|||Well if the C.A.R.S. (aka Cash for Clunkers) plan goes well, we soon will all be driving a Yaris, Insight, or a Prius.
It's better for the environment and for your wallet.
But don't worry, the Dodge Ram is not disappearing anytime soon
P.S. I'll buy the smart (looks like an el camino) pickup in a heartbeat|||Aw, why don't you just buy a tractor trailer to tool around town in. They're not going to be replaced anytime in the future...|||The United States Of Homo Homo Erotica!|||I thought you commuter freaks already had that!!!
It's better for the environment and for your wallet.
But don't worry, the Dodge Ram is not disappearing anytime soon
P.S. I'll buy the smart (looks like an el camino) pickup in a heartbeat|||Aw, why don't you just buy a tractor trailer to tool around town in. They're not going to be replaced anytime in the future...|||The United States Of Homo Homo Erotica!|||I thought you commuter freaks already had that!!!
Is there a Smart Car built for more then 2 people?
I cant seem to find an electric car capable of highway speeds built for more then just 2 people. The smart car is the cheapest I have found, but I have a baby on the way and they just dont have enough space...|||Yes, and no. There is a Smart car for more than two people, called the Smart Forfour. It seats four-five people, depending upon whether you have buckets or a bench seat. The car is available with an electric engine, and has four doors for easier access. It looks a lot like a giant golf cart. The plug-in electric hybrid version is a conversion of the original car done by either Lithium Technology Corporation or Zytek Systems, depending upon your preference.
The no section is that the vehicle isn't offered in the United States, even as a gas-powered vehicle, and the car has ended production as of late 2006, so you can't buy it new anywhere.
Also, the car likely wouldn't be capable of sustained highway speeds, as the top speed of the car is around 55 miles-per-hour, and we all know that running an electric-powered vehicle of any kind at full power equals a very short runtime.
There are other alternatives, though. If you're after the best gas mileage, you can look at a Volkswagen Diesel, which can get up to 52 miles per gallon in the Beetle and 45 miles per gallon in the Golf, Jetta, and Rabbit. There are also some hybrids that can get up to 42 miles per gallon, but that's city mileage, not highway. Highway mileage is generally in the mid-30s. These are the Honda Civic Hybrid and Toyota Prius. And, if you really want to save money, you can get a Chevrolet Aveo, Hyundai Accent, or Kia Rio for under $12,000, and still get four doors, good gas mileage, highway speeds, an outstanding warranty, and a lot more room than a Smart Car.
The only electric car out right now capable of sustained highway speeds is the Tesla Roadster, which is a two-seat sportscar that's basically an electric-powered, slightly lengthened Lotus Elise with different styling. It costs $109,000, so it's likely out of you budget anyway.|||It is not an electric car and not even a Hybrid. It uses the Mercedes Benz 3 cylinder engine making 71 horsepower. It only gets 41 miles per gallon. Some bigger, more powerful, more reliable gas cars get similar gas mileage.
There is the Smart Fortwo-seats to people. Came out in 1998 in Europe and 2008 in America.
There is the Smart Forfour, a longer version of the Fortwo, but with back seats. Not sold in America.
There is the Smart Roadster, a light weight 2 seater sports car, not sold in America.|||The Smart Cars aren't exactly capable of highway speeds. They can only go up to 85 or so. Once they hit around 60 they start shaking really bad. Not really safe for a new baby on the way. I'm not sure what your reasoning for a electric car is but if you're looking for safe vehicle with great gas mileage, low price and capable of highway speeds look into a Toyota Corolla. They're about the same price range as the Smart Cars and are a lot safer than the Smart Cars. |||wait for the volt...
The no section is that the vehicle isn't offered in the United States, even as a gas-powered vehicle, and the car has ended production as of late 2006, so you can't buy it new anywhere.
Also, the car likely wouldn't be capable of sustained highway speeds, as the top speed of the car is around 55 miles-per-hour, and we all know that running an electric-powered vehicle of any kind at full power equals a very short runtime.
There are other alternatives, though. If you're after the best gas mileage, you can look at a Volkswagen Diesel, which can get up to 52 miles per gallon in the Beetle and 45 miles per gallon in the Golf, Jetta, and Rabbit. There are also some hybrids that can get up to 42 miles per gallon, but that's city mileage, not highway. Highway mileage is generally in the mid-30s. These are the Honda Civic Hybrid and Toyota Prius. And, if you really want to save money, you can get a Chevrolet Aveo, Hyundai Accent, or Kia Rio for under $12,000, and still get four doors, good gas mileage, highway speeds, an outstanding warranty, and a lot more room than a Smart Car.
The only electric car out right now capable of sustained highway speeds is the Tesla Roadster, which is a two-seat sportscar that's basically an electric-powered, slightly lengthened Lotus Elise with different styling. It costs $109,000, so it's likely out of you budget anyway.|||It is not an electric car and not even a Hybrid. It uses the Mercedes Benz 3 cylinder engine making 71 horsepower. It only gets 41 miles per gallon. Some bigger, more powerful, more reliable gas cars get similar gas mileage.
There is the Smart Fortwo-seats to people. Came out in 1998 in Europe and 2008 in America.
There is the Smart Forfour, a longer version of the Fortwo, but with back seats. Not sold in America.
There is the Smart Roadster, a light weight 2 seater sports car, not sold in America.|||The Smart Cars aren't exactly capable of highway speeds. They can only go up to 85 or so. Once they hit around 60 they start shaking really bad. Not really safe for a new baby on the way. I'm not sure what your reasoning for a electric car is but if you're looking for safe vehicle with great gas mileage, low price and capable of highway speeds look into a Toyota Corolla. They're about the same price range as the Smart Cars and are a lot safer than the Smart Cars. |||wait for the volt...
What is the first step that a smart new-car buyer should take before talking to salespersons and putting a dep
What is the first step that a smart new-car buyer should take before talking to salespersons and putting a deposit on a car?
A. Shop around for a car loan.
B. Obtain car insurance.
C. Study the car market.
D. Test-drive the car|||Question seems more out of a magazine or book than from you. But here is the answer, before you speak to a salesman, always study the car market and know what you want. Once you know what you want, shop around for a car loan. So, C would be my answer.|||None of the above. First, find out the dealer's cost of the vehicle you want to purchase, second, find out the NADA book value of the vehicle your trading, if there is one. Third, check with your banker or whomever and be sure you can get a loan, if needed, and what the interest rates will be. Fourth, always be willing to walk away from the deal and say, "Is that the best you can do".|||If you're not sure what kind of car you want, get pre-approval for financing to at least know what your price range is. Then, find out what cars are in your price range at several different dealerships. Narrow down your selection, study the market on those makes/models of cars to find out which is more reliable. Test drive the ones that you like. Find out how much car insurance will be for the car you like, then cut a deal with the dealership.
If the dealership won't compromise, go somewhere else. Never settle for what THEY WANT.
A. Shop around for a car loan.
B. Obtain car insurance.
C. Study the car market.
D. Test-drive the car|||Question seems more out of a magazine or book than from you. But here is the answer, before you speak to a salesman, always study the car market and know what you want. Once you know what you want, shop around for a car loan. So, C would be my answer.|||None of the above. First, find out the dealer's cost of the vehicle you want to purchase, second, find out the NADA book value of the vehicle your trading, if there is one. Third, check with your banker or whomever and be sure you can get a loan, if needed, and what the interest rates will be. Fourth, always be willing to walk away from the deal and say, "Is that the best you can do".|||If you're not sure what kind of car you want, get pre-approval for financing to at least know what your price range is. Then, find out what cars are in your price range at several different dealerships. Narrow down your selection, study the market on those makes/models of cars to find out which is more reliable. Test drive the ones that you like. Find out how much car insurance will be for the car you like, then cut a deal with the dealership.
If the dealership won't compromise, go somewhere else. Never settle for what THEY WANT.
Can you drive a smart car on just a provisional license?
Someone told me that you can drive by yourself a smart on just a provisional license because the power is - like the same as a moped . Is this correct or not|||hahaha NO! The smart is a car, and you need a valid license to drive it. Sorry bud, wait a few months :)|||i got told that but you cant because it has 4 wheels or something stupid like that is classed as a car.
I no that sounds stupid lol but my boyfriend is in the motor trade and he said its 100% no.
I no that sounds stupid lol but my boyfriend is in the motor trade and he said its 100% no.
How much does a 08'Mercedes-benz slr mclaren roadster brabus cost alone, !not! including the smart car?
Please answer as soon as possible!
is very important! %26amp; make sure its the
price not including the matching
brabus smart car
Please %26amp; Thank You!|||For you ? one dollar|||495,000
|||$32,999
is very important! %26amp; make sure its the
price not including the matching
brabus smart car
Please %26amp; Thank You!|||For you ? one dollar|||495,000
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|||$32,999
Hey I am looking to buy a smart car. I live in Oklahoma. where is the nearest place that I can find one?
I really would love a used smart roadster, Any help and tips wonderful!|||I suggest you buy a real car.|||You have to go to the SmartForTwo dealership and find out the locations where they sell them.
Honestly, they are not good cars. Just read some of the reviews on edmunds.com or other automotive sites online.|||There's only one dealership in the state, in Tulsa.|||Two peanuts were walking down the street. One was assaulted.
Try Google-ing "used cars Oklahoma"
I like the roadster, it looks small, but cool : )|||Before you do that I suggest checking YOUTUBE videos of these cars getting crashed and imagine you were driving. You have a better chance on a motorcycle|||those are a death trap if your get hit.. kiss your butt good bye if you get hit by anything other than another small car
Honestly, they are not good cars. Just read some of the reviews on edmunds.com or other automotive sites online.|||There's only one dealership in the state, in Tulsa.|||Two peanuts were walking down the street. One was assaulted.
Try Google-ing "used cars Oklahoma"
I like the roadster, it looks small, but cool : )|||Before you do that I suggest checking YOUTUBE videos of these cars getting crashed and imagine you were driving. You have a better chance on a motorcycle|||those are a death trap if your get hit.. kiss your butt good bye if you get hit by anything other than another small car
Is the Smart Car a good thing?
Does anyone know the typical longevity?
Would buying one be a good investment nowadays? (Or should I hold out on buying a new car?)
Are there any common problems/complaints?
If you are an owner or have experience with the Smart Cars, testimonies would be greatly appreciated!|||Here's my answer with true facts and research, not just opinions.
- To start off the smart has some of the lowest insurance costs in all of the USA.
- Traction is very good in the snow (especially with snow tires.)
- It got some of the highest crash test ratings of all subcompacts
- It is owned by Daimler and Mercedes
- Some drivers with a feather of a foot can reach around 50mpg
- EPA Estimated 33/41 mpg
- Parks anywhere
- Great when gas prices are a killer
- Speed limited to 90mph
- 0-60 in about 12.8 seconds. The fastest recorded was by Motorweek at 12.2 seconds.
- USB 2.0 Upgrade makes the transmission shift faster and smoother.
- Tridion Safety Cell
- Exchangeable body panels that cost not even a fraction of the cost of traditional body parts
- ESP - Uses Bosch Stability Control systems to help keep you from losing control of your smart.
- Hill Start Assist - so you don't fly back when starting up a hill
- Roomy - It fits some of the biggest people (Shaq bought one)
- Luxury - cabrio model - pano roof - A/C - iPod compatible stereo with optional subs - on 08 and early 09 models had Automatic headlights and automatic wipers
- Halogen Headlights provide the path through the night
- Rear mounted engine - helps to provide better traction to the road. It also eliminates the need for the extra bulky parts required for a front engine. Also without a front engine, the front end of the vehicle could be as space saving as possible
- Side airbags - an add on to the already rigid NASCAR quality safety cell
- Turning radius of 27ft
- Uses synthetic oil
- Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV)
- low MSRP sticker price
- custom made for you or pick up an orphan
There are 4 US trims available, all current model 451 smart fortwo…
The pure - $11,990 – all the essentials, nothing else, not even AC
The passion coupe - $13,990 – the smart in its luxury form, options go on from a premium sound system with tweeters, mid-range, and a subwoofer to the comfort package with leather seating, seat heating, power steering, and fog lamps, panorama roof designed by Bayer Material Sciences is included.
The passion cabriolet - $16,990 – this smart comes with everything that the passion coupe can have but with a cabriolet roof. One touch and the roof will open like a sun roof. Another touch and it’ll move into a full convertible position. This can be done at any speed. To add on, you could remove the upper Tridion Cell bars to full the effect.
The BRABUS coupe and cabriolet - $17,990-$20,990 – BRABUS is just one of Mercedes Benz’s most famous modifiers. The US versions come with an upgraded exhaust system and suspension upgrades along with the BRABUS styling and body kits.
There are more models one could obtain in the USA by the “grey market” These are:
The smart city coupe – this is the original smart fortwo, made for Europe and is imported to the USA by G%26amp;K. These come in very limited numbers and are actually shorter than the USA model.
The smart roadster – this is the fastest smart to come off the production line. These had a limited production of only 5,000 models. These were never imported to the USA and got here by other means (military, etc.). These are extremely rare to find in the states and as the numbers aren’t solid, there’s probably less than 50 of these roadsters in the USA, making it a very rare find. They don’t have an electronic limiter so they’re top speed is whatever your red line is in 6th gear. Stock red line is at 125mph.
As for safety the smart has received the highest ratings of all subcompacts. And the smart has received the IIHS highest rating of “GOOD” overall.
In roof crush tests the smart beat the competition by a mile because roof crush is over 9,000 pounds. It earned "GOOD" in this test as well.
'The smart brand (spelled in lowercase by the manufacturer) is a combination of Swatch, Mercedes and ART. The Swatch company had the idea for removable body panels, but is no longer involved with the smart'. The smart brand continued this idea of low cost, high quality removable body panels to this day.
And because of this, the smart was the only car to pass the IIHS' 2.5 mph bumper test. The damage caused to the vehicle would have to cost less than $500.The smart's body panel totaled around $190. All others had failed because of their poorly designed and expensive bumpers.
The smart plant in Hambach, France opened its doors in 1998 rolling the first city coupe off the line. But smart’s roots go all the way back to around 1996 when ideas were rolling and the first “smarts” were on the road.
Additionally, according to Gizmag, the smart brand is the 5th "most reliable" car brand available in the USA. And this is just after only 11 years after smart opened its doors.
Here's how the smart compares to other fuel sippers:
Through long term testing, the little smart has proven to cost less in the long run than any other full petrol powered vehicle.
Here are my equations for how much I'm saving with a smart compared to a Yaris and a Prius:
smart fortwo: 41mpg after break in (EPA estimate for highway) equates to a 357mi range on one 8.7 gallon tank. At current local gas prices ($2.70 Premium) the smart gets that 357mi with only $23. Not bad, weekly lunch costs more than that.
Okay now to a Prius, estimating 48mpg (EPA estimate for highway) after break in and with an 11.9 gallon tank this equates to a range of 571mi. And with gas ($2.50 Unleaded) it would cost $30. Not bad either, for ten more bucks you could go 200 more miles.
Now to the Yaris, estimating 36mpg after break in (EPA estimate for highway) and with its 11.1 gallon tank it has a range of 399mi (one less than a smart) but it requires extra gallons to reach that and with the gas ($2.50 Unleaded) it will take $28 to fill up a Yaris.
Here are the standings:
Prius - $30 - 571mi - 48mpg
Yaris - $28 - 399mi - 36mpg
smart - $23 - 357mi - 41mpg
Now let’s consider buying price and later purchases (batteries):
Base models:
smart fortwo pure - (automated manual transmission) $11,990 - no A/C - no power accessories (excluding locking), no radio. side airbags included
Yaris - (manual transmission) $12,205 - CD player standard, A/C, side airbags NOT included but are "optional" (receives "POOR" for side impact safety without it)
Prius - (automatic) $22,000 - CD player standard, Eco A/C, side airbags included
Fully Loaded:
smart fortwo cabriolet (convertible) - (automated manual) $20,000 - Navigation with Bluetooth and iPod control, leather seating/heating, fog lamps, security system with immobilizer, power steering. Etc...
Yaris (2 dr coupe) - (automatic) $22,157 - iPod compatible stereo, power upgrades, style upgrades, safety upgrades, security system.
Prius - (automatic) $35,173 - eco friendly materials, navigation, remote start, solar panel cooling.
Prius battery change - every 100,000-200,000 miles/ 8 years at a price of $2,500.
Yearly costs (if driven 1,000mi a month):
Prius - $612 @ 1.7 fill ups a month @ $30 a fill up @ $2.50gal
smart - $773 @ 2.8 fill ups a month @ $23 a fill up @ 2.70gal
Yaris - $843 @ 2.51 fill ups a month @ $28 a fill up @ $2.50gal
With those $194 gas savings it'll take a Prius 94 years to offset the cost of a smart. And that does not include the 100,000-200,000mi/ 8 year battery change.
Parts cost of the smart: (these high strength body panels awarded the smart "GOOD" for bumper crush resistance tests)(this is if your insurance company does not pay, out of pocket etc.):
$190 for single body part
$1,000 for whole new body replacement (including installation)
Parts cost on "traditional" cars (Prius, Yaris, F-150):
$1,000 - $2,000+ for single part
$8,000+ for full body replacement
So overall, the smart is the cheaper car. It does offer a bit less performance and 2 less seats than other cars but the payoff is great. The combination of safety and design makes the smart a revolutionary car. And driving it does nothing but put a big smile on your face.
Maintenance is so easy a toddler could do the basics, your smartcenter would do oil changes and scheduled maintenance for a small fee of about $120 as compared to $300+ that other companies offer.
Although you can just do your own maintenance if you know how, and online manuals would show the simplest ways.
Say if your dealer screws up and you're unhappy, you could call the President of smartUSA and talk to him and not a person in an outsourced country! And he'll set any issues straight.
So if you want more bang for the buck (and more fun!) I highly recommend the smart car.
To find out more, please go to my sources:|||I own a smart and have 45,000 miles on it. The car IS A PIECE OF JUNK! The smart only gets a few more miles per gallon than a small Toyota or Honda and you have to use premium gas at an extra 25 cents a gallon so it most like costs MORE PER MILE to drive. Transmission problems, POOR QUALITY. JUNK!
|||It's too new to have established reliability trends.
The Smart is not very smart. The car is very slow when starting from a stop. It has a harsh ride, clumsy handling, and an automated manual transmission that has the worst gear shift quality of any car made. It shifts slowly, causing the car to pause and heave, rocking the occupants fore and aft. It gets decent mileage but because it requires premium gas fuel cost is actually more than quite a few cars that get lower mileage.
I think it will end up being a terrible investment. Right now it's a novelty that's in short supply so they are selling for top dollar but I suspect that in the future when the novelty wears off and there is an adequate supply available the bottom will drop out of their resale value. There are quite a few larger, more comfortable, safer, more powerful, better handling cars that cost less.
The car is a death trap. There is a lot of propaganda about how good it performed in crash tests, but those tests are based on single car accidents into a fixed barrier. In an accident with another heavier car the laws of physics rule. The Smart will get squashed like a bug and the occupants are unlikely to survive.|||Good investment? No car is a good investment. A car is pretty much guaranteed to depreciate in value as soon as you drive it off the car lot so don't think of a car an investment. You'll never get your money back on one.
The Smart is a good car if you look at it for what it is supposed to be...an urban runabout. Keep in mind that it was designed in Europe for European city roads. Many of those roads are very narrow, parking is scarce, and fuel costs are much higher compared to North American standards. For those roads, the Smart makes a lot of sense. It's great on gas (especially the diesel versions which are available in Europe), it's easy to manoeuvre in congested areas and that small exterior makes squeezing into parking spots much easier.
What the Smart is not good for is long distance travel. The short wheelbase means that the suspension has to be stiffer but that makes the Smart a handful over bumps (especially at highway speeds). Speaking of highway speeds, while it is capable of keeping up with traffic. Don't expect much more from it in terms of acceleration while on the highway. It is also susceptible to crosswinds and it is a little on the noisy side. Also, you can have a passenger or luggage (in the pass. seat and footwell) but don't expect to carry both. The space behind the seats is very limited.
If it's going to be your only car, a vehicle like a Toyota Yaris or Honda Fit is a better choice. They cost around the same money, use only a little more fuel, but are much more versatile as they have a backseat and more luggage space. If you already have a vehicle but just need a second vehicle as an urban commuter car, the Smart can be a smart choice (yes, pun is intentional).
As for those that say the Smart is not safe, take a look at actual crash tests please. The Smart is actually a very safe vehicle for its size. It's Tridion safety cell is well engineered and proven to work|||The Smart Car is a blast to drive and it's a lot of fun.
Also, notice how clueless people that call the car a "Death Trap" have ZERO proof to back up their opinion. The three links I've provided should show you that it's safe.
Also on the Smart Car Forum you can read reports from those who drive the car.|||The gas mileage on the smart car is not all that great. Besides it is not a safe car to drive. A golf cart seems safer. A better investment would be a corolla or a civic. They get slightly less gas mileage but way better safety rating. plus the places you can take it to get it serviced are everywhere.|||It all depends on your needs - do you need a commuter car to go on short distances or in a crowded city? Then the Smart is quite good.
But for its size, it doesn't get great mileage, so if you're going to drive it like any other car, you might as well get any other car.
And despite what some people may suggest, the Smart is quite safe. Those who say otherwise are talking out of their **** and have no clue other than personal biases.|||There is absolutely nothing Smart about that Car. Most cars survive a ding or dent. Not this one... one ding or dent will send you sailing to parts unknown (from the vehicle) or (pasted to) the interior.|||small car that does the job/made by mb good reports|||if u god forbid get into an accident with that thing, ur dead. no doubt about it. sorry.
Would buying one be a good investment nowadays? (Or should I hold out on buying a new car?)
Are there any common problems/complaints?
If you are an owner or have experience with the Smart Cars, testimonies would be greatly appreciated!|||Here's my answer with true facts and research, not just opinions.
- To start off the smart has some of the lowest insurance costs in all of the USA.
- Traction is very good in the snow (especially with snow tires.)
- It got some of the highest crash test ratings of all subcompacts
- It is owned by Daimler and Mercedes
- Some drivers with a feather of a foot can reach around 50mpg
- EPA Estimated 33/41 mpg
- Parks anywhere
- Great when gas prices are a killer
- Speed limited to 90mph
- 0-60 in about 12.8 seconds. The fastest recorded was by Motorweek at 12.2 seconds.
- USB 2.0 Upgrade makes the transmission shift faster and smoother.
- Tridion Safety Cell
- Exchangeable body panels that cost not even a fraction of the cost of traditional body parts
- ESP - Uses Bosch Stability Control systems to help keep you from losing control of your smart.
- Hill Start Assist - so you don't fly back when starting up a hill
- Roomy - It fits some of the biggest people (Shaq bought one)
- Luxury - cabrio model - pano roof - A/C - iPod compatible stereo with optional subs - on 08 and early 09 models had Automatic headlights and automatic wipers
- Halogen Headlights provide the path through the night
- Rear mounted engine - helps to provide better traction to the road. It also eliminates the need for the extra bulky parts required for a front engine. Also without a front engine, the front end of the vehicle could be as space saving as possible
- Side airbags - an add on to the already rigid NASCAR quality safety cell
- Turning radius of 27ft
- Uses synthetic oil
- Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV)
- low MSRP sticker price
- custom made for you or pick up an orphan
There are 4 US trims available, all current model 451 smart fortwo…
The pure - $11,990 – all the essentials, nothing else, not even AC
The passion coupe - $13,990 – the smart in its luxury form, options go on from a premium sound system with tweeters, mid-range, and a subwoofer to the comfort package with leather seating, seat heating, power steering, and fog lamps, panorama roof designed by Bayer Material Sciences is included.
The passion cabriolet - $16,990 – this smart comes with everything that the passion coupe can have but with a cabriolet roof. One touch and the roof will open like a sun roof. Another touch and it’ll move into a full convertible position. This can be done at any speed. To add on, you could remove the upper Tridion Cell bars to full the effect.
The BRABUS coupe and cabriolet - $17,990-$20,990 – BRABUS is just one of Mercedes Benz’s most famous modifiers. The US versions come with an upgraded exhaust system and suspension upgrades along with the BRABUS styling and body kits.
There are more models one could obtain in the USA by the “grey market” These are:
The smart city coupe – this is the original smart fortwo, made for Europe and is imported to the USA by G%26amp;K. These come in very limited numbers and are actually shorter than the USA model.
The smart roadster – this is the fastest smart to come off the production line. These had a limited production of only 5,000 models. These were never imported to the USA and got here by other means (military, etc.). These are extremely rare to find in the states and as the numbers aren’t solid, there’s probably less than 50 of these roadsters in the USA, making it a very rare find. They don’t have an electronic limiter so they’re top speed is whatever your red line is in 6th gear. Stock red line is at 125mph.
As for safety the smart has received the highest ratings of all subcompacts. And the smart has received the IIHS highest rating of “GOOD” overall.
In roof crush tests the smart beat the competition by a mile because roof crush is over 9,000 pounds. It earned "GOOD" in this test as well.
'The smart brand (spelled in lowercase by the manufacturer) is a combination of Swatch, Mercedes and ART. The Swatch company had the idea for removable body panels, but is no longer involved with the smart'. The smart brand continued this idea of low cost, high quality removable body panels to this day.
And because of this, the smart was the only car to pass the IIHS' 2.5 mph bumper test. The damage caused to the vehicle would have to cost less than $500.The smart's body panel totaled around $190. All others had failed because of their poorly designed and expensive bumpers.
The smart plant in Hambach, France opened its doors in 1998 rolling the first city coupe off the line. But smart’s roots go all the way back to around 1996 when ideas were rolling and the first “smarts” were on the road.
Additionally, according to Gizmag, the smart brand is the 5th "most reliable" car brand available in the USA. And this is just after only 11 years after smart opened its doors.
Here's how the smart compares to other fuel sippers:
Through long term testing, the little smart has proven to cost less in the long run than any other full petrol powered vehicle.
Here are my equations for how much I'm saving with a smart compared to a Yaris and a Prius:
smart fortwo: 41mpg after break in (EPA estimate for highway) equates to a 357mi range on one 8.7 gallon tank. At current local gas prices ($2.70 Premium) the smart gets that 357mi with only $23. Not bad, weekly lunch costs more than that.
Okay now to a Prius, estimating 48mpg (EPA estimate for highway) after break in and with an 11.9 gallon tank this equates to a range of 571mi. And with gas ($2.50 Unleaded) it would cost $30. Not bad either, for ten more bucks you could go 200 more miles.
Now to the Yaris, estimating 36mpg after break in (EPA estimate for highway) and with its 11.1 gallon tank it has a range of 399mi (one less than a smart) but it requires extra gallons to reach that and with the gas ($2.50 Unleaded) it will take $28 to fill up a Yaris.
Here are the standings:
Prius - $30 - 571mi - 48mpg
Yaris - $28 - 399mi - 36mpg
smart - $23 - 357mi - 41mpg
Now let’s consider buying price and later purchases (batteries):
Base models:
smart fortwo pure - (automated manual transmission) $11,990 - no A/C - no power accessories (excluding locking), no radio. side airbags included
Yaris - (manual transmission) $12,205 - CD player standard, A/C, side airbags NOT included but are "optional" (receives "POOR" for side impact safety without it)
Prius - (automatic) $22,000 - CD player standard, Eco A/C, side airbags included
Fully Loaded:
smart fortwo cabriolet (convertible) - (automated manual) $20,000 - Navigation with Bluetooth and iPod control, leather seating/heating, fog lamps, security system with immobilizer, power steering. Etc...
Yaris (2 dr coupe) - (automatic) $22,157 - iPod compatible stereo, power upgrades, style upgrades, safety upgrades, security system.
Prius - (automatic) $35,173 - eco friendly materials, navigation, remote start, solar panel cooling.
Prius battery change - every 100,000-200,000 miles/ 8 years at a price of $2,500.
Yearly costs (if driven 1,000mi a month):
Prius - $612 @ 1.7 fill ups a month @ $30 a fill up @ $2.50gal
smart - $773 @ 2.8 fill ups a month @ $23 a fill up @ 2.70gal
Yaris - $843 @ 2.51 fill ups a month @ $28 a fill up @ $2.50gal
With those $194 gas savings it'll take a Prius 94 years to offset the cost of a smart. And that does not include the 100,000-200,000mi/ 8 year battery change.
Parts cost of the smart: (these high strength body panels awarded the smart "GOOD" for bumper crush resistance tests)(this is if your insurance company does not pay, out of pocket etc.):
$190 for single body part
$1,000 for whole new body replacement (including installation)
Parts cost on "traditional" cars (Prius, Yaris, F-150):
$1,000 - $2,000+ for single part
$8,000+ for full body replacement
So overall, the smart is the cheaper car. It does offer a bit less performance and 2 less seats than other cars but the payoff is great. The combination of safety and design makes the smart a revolutionary car. And driving it does nothing but put a big smile on your face.
Maintenance is so easy a toddler could do the basics, your smartcenter would do oil changes and scheduled maintenance for a small fee of about $120 as compared to $300+ that other companies offer.
Although you can just do your own maintenance if you know how, and online manuals would show the simplest ways.
Say if your dealer screws up and you're unhappy, you could call the President of smartUSA and talk to him and not a person in an outsourced country! And he'll set any issues straight.
So if you want more bang for the buck (and more fun!) I highly recommend the smart car.
To find out more, please go to my sources:|||I own a smart and have 45,000 miles on it. The car IS A PIECE OF JUNK! The smart only gets a few more miles per gallon than a small Toyota or Honda and you have to use premium gas at an extra 25 cents a gallon so it most like costs MORE PER MILE to drive. Transmission problems, POOR QUALITY. JUNK!
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|||It's too new to have established reliability trends.
The Smart is not very smart. The car is very slow when starting from a stop. It has a harsh ride, clumsy handling, and an automated manual transmission that has the worst gear shift quality of any car made. It shifts slowly, causing the car to pause and heave, rocking the occupants fore and aft. It gets decent mileage but because it requires premium gas fuel cost is actually more than quite a few cars that get lower mileage.
I think it will end up being a terrible investment. Right now it's a novelty that's in short supply so they are selling for top dollar but I suspect that in the future when the novelty wears off and there is an adequate supply available the bottom will drop out of their resale value. There are quite a few larger, more comfortable, safer, more powerful, better handling cars that cost less.
The car is a death trap. There is a lot of propaganda about how good it performed in crash tests, but those tests are based on single car accidents into a fixed barrier. In an accident with another heavier car the laws of physics rule. The Smart will get squashed like a bug and the occupants are unlikely to survive.|||Good investment? No car is a good investment. A car is pretty much guaranteed to depreciate in value as soon as you drive it off the car lot so don't think of a car an investment. You'll never get your money back on one.
The Smart is a good car if you look at it for what it is supposed to be...an urban runabout. Keep in mind that it was designed in Europe for European city roads. Many of those roads are very narrow, parking is scarce, and fuel costs are much higher compared to North American standards. For those roads, the Smart makes a lot of sense. It's great on gas (especially the diesel versions which are available in Europe), it's easy to manoeuvre in congested areas and that small exterior makes squeezing into parking spots much easier.
What the Smart is not good for is long distance travel. The short wheelbase means that the suspension has to be stiffer but that makes the Smart a handful over bumps (especially at highway speeds). Speaking of highway speeds, while it is capable of keeping up with traffic. Don't expect much more from it in terms of acceleration while on the highway. It is also susceptible to crosswinds and it is a little on the noisy side. Also, you can have a passenger or luggage (in the pass. seat and footwell) but don't expect to carry both. The space behind the seats is very limited.
If it's going to be your only car, a vehicle like a Toyota Yaris or Honda Fit is a better choice. They cost around the same money, use only a little more fuel, but are much more versatile as they have a backseat and more luggage space. If you already have a vehicle but just need a second vehicle as an urban commuter car, the Smart can be a smart choice (yes, pun is intentional).
As for those that say the Smart is not safe, take a look at actual crash tests please. The Smart is actually a very safe vehicle for its size. It's Tridion safety cell is well engineered and proven to work|||The Smart Car is a blast to drive and it's a lot of fun.
Also, notice how clueless people that call the car a "Death Trap" have ZERO proof to back up their opinion. The three links I've provided should show you that it's safe.
Also on the Smart Car Forum you can read reports from those who drive the car.|||The gas mileage on the smart car is not all that great. Besides it is not a safe car to drive. A golf cart seems safer. A better investment would be a corolla or a civic. They get slightly less gas mileage but way better safety rating. plus the places you can take it to get it serviced are everywhere.|||It all depends on your needs - do you need a commuter car to go on short distances or in a crowded city? Then the Smart is quite good.
But for its size, it doesn't get great mileage, so if you're going to drive it like any other car, you might as well get any other car.
And despite what some people may suggest, the Smart is quite safe. Those who say otherwise are talking out of their **** and have no clue other than personal biases.|||There is absolutely nothing Smart about that Car. Most cars survive a ding or dent. Not this one... one ding or dent will send you sailing to parts unknown (from the vehicle) or (pasted to) the interior.|||small car that does the job/made by mb good reports|||if u god forbid get into an accident with that thing, ur dead. no doubt about it. sorry.
Can a front facing car seat go in the front Passenger seat of a car (Smart Car)?
UK rules only please! Wanting to know if my son's front facing seat can go at the front. Do the air bags need to be disabled? Not sure how to disable them in a Smart Car.|||Airbags have to be off or disabled if you ever put a child in a car seat in the front seat. Depending on your son's weight and age is also a factor whether or not he should be in the front seat. While being more convenient to have him by your side the child is always safer in the back seat. My grandchildren are 6 (twins) and still not allowed to ride in the front seat. Hope this helps, I have to be honest and tell you I do not know the law on this. If you decide to put the car seat in the front seat see your car dealer who can show you how to disable the airbag on his side.
Take care, you sound like a very loving and caring mommy. Your son is lucky to have a mom who is so vigilant about his safety.|||The law requires children (and adults) travelling in the front of all vehicles, including vans, buses, coaches, minibuses and goods vehicles to use an appropriate child restraint or adult seat belts.
An electronically controlled system will detect the weight of the occupant on the passenger seat or the installation of a child restraint system. The Electronic Control Unit (ECU) determines the appropriate mode of the dual stage full size front airbag deployment. For very young passengers for whom an airbag deployment could mean a serious risk, the front and side airbags will be deactivated. A control lamp in the center of the roof panel will show this clearly.|||If you cared about your child's safety at all, you would not drive nor put them anywhere in such a stupid vehicle. NOT SMART. Yeah, disable the airbags on any car and put yourself and the child in a vehicle that has more than three feet between the front and back at least, yet alone some sheet metal and tires larger than a tricycle. What you just asked if you should do is more dangerous than putting your kid in a bungie cord tied to his first toe and dropping him on the street without a net. Do you feel safe driving that so called "Smart car" in traffic between semi trucks and "regular" cars in traffic?
Take care, you sound like a very loving and caring mommy. Your son is lucky to have a mom who is so vigilant about his safety.|||The law requires children (and adults) travelling in the front of all vehicles, including vans, buses, coaches, minibuses and goods vehicles to use an appropriate child restraint or adult seat belts.
An electronically controlled system will detect the weight of the occupant on the passenger seat or the installation of a child restraint system. The Electronic Control Unit (ECU) determines the appropriate mode of the dual stage full size front airbag deployment. For very young passengers for whom an airbag deployment could mean a serious risk, the front and side airbags will be deactivated. A control lamp in the center of the roof panel will show this clearly.|||If you cared about your child's safety at all, you would not drive nor put them anywhere in such a stupid vehicle. NOT SMART. Yeah, disable the airbags on any car and put yourself and the child in a vehicle that has more than three feet between the front and back at least, yet alone some sheet metal and tires larger than a tricycle. What you just asked if you should do is more dangerous than putting your kid in a bungie cord tied to his first toe and dropping him on the street without a net. Do you feel safe driving that so called "Smart car" in traffic between semi trucks and "regular" cars in traffic?
Can you drive a Smart Car at 16 in the UK?
Smart cars are really small and you can get some which are 50cc can you drive these at 16 with a provisional license.|||No, they are not 50cc! Smart cars are (from what I can find) 600 and 800CC. According to the Directgov website, you have to be 17 - good luck getting affordable insurance at that age on a Smart, though!|||No, it's still a car so you have to wait until you're 17 for that. Moped for now...|||Yes. On private land with the land owner's permission the same as any other car. You can't drive a car on public roads until the age of 17.|||sadly you must be 17! you can get a moped at 16 though!|||No.
You can only start to learn to drive at 17.
Look on www.dvla.com and theres tonnes of info on there.|||no you must be 17 to drive a car on UK roads
You can only start to learn to drive at 17.
Look on www.dvla.com and theres tonnes of info on there.|||no you must be 17 to drive a car on UK roads
How do you put a Hayabusa engine into a Smart Car ForTwo?
Gots the car and engine just need to know how to put them together! I've looked. but can not find. Gots a guide?|||All the engineering has to come from your noggin. And all the expense. And all the tools. And all the machining, welding, and fabrication. It will all come from you and your wallet.
The installation will be 100% custom.|||Equipment, brains, knowledge, time, money. Good luck.|||Someone has done it (I've seen vids on youtube), but it's 100% custom. You'll have to engineer everything from scratch.
The installation will be 100% custom.|||Equipment, brains, knowledge, time, money. Good luck.|||Someone has done it (I've seen vids on youtube), but it's 100% custom. You'll have to engineer everything from scratch.
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Where do I buy a smart car in houston?
You know the car that looks like a toy?|||smart center Houston North
17510 I45
North Houston, TX 77090
(281) 233-6090|||Ask a Mercedes Benz dealer they make them . I also hear that they cost between 16000 and 20000 depending on your options . In Canada the government offers you 2000 back if you buy them. Check to see if Texas has a similar program.They use to have a diesel engine but they only come with a gas engine now.|||I was in Washington today and I saw a Smart dealership.
Just go to the Smartcars.com website and go to locate dealers and type in your zipcode.
17510 I45
North Houston, TX 77090
(281) 233-6090|||Ask a Mercedes Benz dealer they make them . I also hear that they cost between 16000 and 20000 depending on your options . In Canada the government offers you 2000 back if you buy them. Check to see if Texas has a similar program.They use to have a diesel engine but they only come with a gas engine now.|||I was in Washington today and I saw a Smart dealership.
Just go to the Smartcars.com website and go to locate dealers and type in your zipcode.
Which is better; a Smart car ForTwo or a Ford KA?
I'm looking for my first car and i would like either of these cars, more so the Smart car, but I was wondering if the Smart car would be worth investing in as it seems to be slightly more expensive than the Ka.
I know that the Smart car has very cheap tax but i'm not sure which car is cheapest to run over all.
Please help!|||Look at the front of a smart car. Now where are YOU going to be if you rear end another car ??
YOU are going to be DEAD smashed on the rear of the other car since the not-so smart car has YOU in the very front.
Get the Ford.
I know that the Smart car has very cheap tax but i'm not sure which car is cheapest to run over all.
Please help!|||Look at the front of a smart car. Now where are YOU going to be if you rear end another car ??
YOU are going to be DEAD smashed on the rear of the other car since the not-so smart car has YOU in the very front.
Get the Ford.
Has anybody had a problem with the esp light staying on in a smart car & losing acceleration?
my car has been a garage for 10weeks now %26amp; nobody seems to know the problem can anyone answer my question?|||http://blogs.cars.com/kickingtires/2007/鈥?/a>
Problem is, no one knows how to work on them yet, not even the dealers who sell them.
Can't be that hard though, it's a standard 3 cylinder engine. Start talking "lemon laws" and "the media" and I bet they find an answer.
Problem is, no one knows how to work on them yet, not even the dealers who sell them.
Can't be that hard though, it's a standard 3 cylinder engine. Start talking "lemon laws" and "the media" and I bet they find an answer.
Where can iI get a smart car, and how much do they cost?
I want one of those tiny smart cars like in the movie sleepover.|||http://www.smart.com/-snm-0135207752-123鈥?/a>
Go to your local dealer and ask them about them. they are totally cute!|||dont buy a smart car. please. there are better safer cars out there around the same price that get very good milage.
Look at the Hyundai Accent, Nissan Versa, and the Suzuki SX4. Sure they might not look unique but you wont die.|||Just got the USA website for Smart Car and it will give you the details. They are in hi demand but you you can put down a $99 reserve fee for one.|||best place to look for one is the internet .. search it on a dealer website
i recomend that you dont get one
your life will depend on it
because many safety equipment in the car is not included|||go to a dealership
and they are OUTRAGEOUSLY expensive, like around 25,000
but the car will pay off for itself in the gas it saves very fast,|||Go to a dealership and ask them , they should help. Personally i would not buy one. If you ever get into an accident with one , you pretty much dead.|||the basic smart cars, brand new at dealerships cost around $12,000. They should cost half that price...|||what ever
Go to your local dealer and ask them about them. they are totally cute!|||dont buy a smart car. please. there are better safer cars out there around the same price that get very good milage.
Look at the Hyundai Accent, Nissan Versa, and the Suzuki SX4. Sure they might not look unique but you wont die.|||Just got the USA website for Smart Car and it will give you the details. They are in hi demand but you you can put down a $99 reserve fee for one.|||best place to look for one is the internet .. search it on a dealer website
i recomend that you dont get one
your life will depend on it
because many safety equipment in the car is not included|||go to a dealership
and they are OUTRAGEOUSLY expensive, like around 25,000
but the car will pay off for itself in the gas it saves very fast,|||Go to a dealership and ask them , they should help. Personally i would not buy one. If you ever get into an accident with one , you pretty much dead.|||the basic smart cars, brand new at dealerships cost around $12,000. They should cost half that price...|||what ever
WHAT ARE THE PROS AN CONS OF SMART CAR?
I am thinking of buying a car. I wonder how good are the Smart Cars in snowing winter weather.|||there are no pros to this car.
the con is that you will not survive a crash in this little tin box.
one day some mexican will be barrelling thru like a bat outta hell driving a 4x4 chevy , run you over, and not even see you.
if you buy one of these things.....please get life insurance. Your
relatives and next of kin will thank you.|||good car and good reports/it is what it is|||Pros they fit everywhere and they are eco-friendly
Cons I you get hit your car finishes all messed and almost unfixable in winter conditions the tires slip a bit,but they are good cars|||DO NOT LISTEN TO ANYONE WHO SAYS THEY ARENT SAFE. ive gone through about every single crash test video for this car. it has a 5 star crash rating! they are small and light weight so they do bounce violently but when the car crashes, the front end of the car does a great job! i looked at a crash test at close to 45mph and the cars doors were still able to open. despite the small size of the vehicle, its safe! no one has died in a smart car crash yet so there must be something safe about them. i went to the dealership for smart. the car is made of extremely high quality steel. a new design from mercedes that started about 5 years ago. everything is framed with this steel. even the seats are welded down and framed with this steel and the car is very roomy on the inside, so getting crushed by the car is no problem you have to worry about. it has anti-lock brakes and stability control. lets say you go up on 2 wheels, or hydroplane. the car automatically shifts the weight to the side in the air and brings in back to the ground. go on youtube and watch the crash tests. this is a safe vehicle and i hate how people automatically assume the car is extremely unsafe. it is the safest small car in america. many people thank their smart cars when they do get into bad crashes cause the car kept them safe and allive though the car acts like a bouncy ball, its does protect the occupants inside. and on top of all that, the car has airbags everywhere. you would be crazy not to consider a car like this. plus, it gets good full consumption. about 40 to 45 mpg. easy to park. reliable/made by mercedes benz. and comfortable.|||A pro of the car is that you won't have to take your in-laws anywhere if you and your spouse drive to dinner.
A con. The car isn't much cheaper than a Honda Fit which has gas milage of 28/35 and 117 HP and 106 torque compared with the smart fortwo 33/41 and 70 HP and 68 torque. It will take you 12 seconds to accelerate your smart car to 60mph. Imagine trying to get out of the way of an accident or accelerating to get on the highway.|||Pros:
Here's my long answer with true facts and research, not just opinions.
- To start off the smart has some of the lowest insurance costs in all of the USA.
- Traction is very good in the snow (especially with snow tires.)
- It got some of the highest crash test ratings of all subcompacts
- It is owned by Daimler and Mercedes
- Some drivers with a feather of a foot can reach around 50mpg
- EPA Estimated 33/41 mpg
- Parks anywhere
- Great when gas prices are a killer
- Speed limited to 90mph
- 0-60 in about 12.8 seconds. The fastest recorded was by Motorweek at 12.2 seconds.
- USB 2.0 Upgrade makes the transmission shift faster and smoother.
- Tridion Safety Cell
- Exchangable body panels that cost not even a fraction of the cost of traditional body parts
- ESP - Uses Bosch Stability Control systems to help keep you from losing control of your smart.
- Hill Start Assist - so you don't fly back when starting up a hill
- Roomy - It fits some of the biggest people (Shaq bought one)
- Luxury - cabrio model - pano roof - A/C - iPod compatible stereo with optional subs - on 08 and early 09 models had Automatic headlights and automatic wipers
- Halogen Headlights provide the path through the night
- Rear mounted engine - helps to provide better traction to the road. It also eliminates the need for the extra bulky parts required for a front engine. Also without a front engine, the front end of the vehicle could be as space saving as possible
- Side airbags - an addon to the already rigid NASCAR quality safety cell
- Turning radius of 27ft
- Uses synthetic oil
- Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV)
- low MSRP sticker price
- custom made for you or pick up an orphan
There are 4 US trims available, all current model 451 smart fortwo…
The pure - $11,990 – all the essentials, nothing else, not even AC
The passion coupe - $13,990 – the smart in its luxury form, options go on from a premium sound system with tweeters, mid-range, and a subwoofer to the comfort package with leather seating, seat heating, power steering, and fog lamps, panorama roof designed by Bayer Material Sciences is included.
The passion cabriolet - $16,990 – this smart comes with everything that the passion coupe can have but with a cabriolet roof. One touch and the roof will open like a sun roof. Another touch and it’ll move into a full convertible position. This can be done at any speed. To add on, you could remove the upper Tridion Cell bars to full the effect.
The BRABUS coupe and cabriolet - $17,990-$20,990 – BRABUS is just one of Mercedes Benz’s most famous modifiers. The US versions come with an upgraded exhaust system and suspension upgrades along with the BRABUS styling and body kits.
There are more models one could obtain in the USA by the “grey market” These are:
The smart city coupe – this is the original smart fortwo, made for Europe and is imported to the USA by G%26amp;K. These come in very limited numbers and are actually shorter than the USA model.
The smart roadster – this is the fastest smart to come off the production line. These had a limited production of only 5,000 models. These were never imported to the USA and got here by other means (military, ect.). These are extremely rare to find in the states and as the numbers aren’t solid, there’s probably less than 50 of these roadsters in the USA, making it a very rare find. They don’t have an electronic limiter so they’re top speed is whatever your red line is in 6th gear. Stock red line is at 125mph.
As for safety the smart has received the highest ratings of all subcompacts. And has received the IIHS highest rating of “GOOD”
In roof crush tests, the smart beat the competition by a mile because roof crush is over 9,000 pounds. It earned "GOOD" in this test aswell.
'The smart brand (spelled in lowercase by the manufacturer) is a combination of Swatch, Mercedes and ART. The Swatch company had the idea for removeable body panels, but is no longer involved with the smart'. The smart brand continued this idea of low cost, high quality removeable body panels to this day.
And because of this, the smart was the only car to pass the IIHS' 2.5 mph bumper test. The damage caused to the vehicle would have to cost less than $500.The smart's body panel totalled around $190. All others had failed because of their poorly designed and expensive bumpers.
The smart plant in Hambach, France opened its doors in 1998 rolling the first city coupe off the line. But smart’s roots go all the way back to around 1996 when ideas were rolling and the first “smarts” were on the road.
Additionally, according to Gizmag, the smart brand is the 5th "most reliable" car brand available in the USA. And this is just after only 11 years after smart opened it's doors.|||PROS:
%26gt; Roomy inside
%26gt; Fun to drive
%26gt; Great millage for a non-hybrid 33 city / 41 highway
%26gt; Low cost starting at $11,990 (Pure) and $13,990 (Coupe)
%26gt; Safe, Electronic Stability Program helps hold the slick roads
%26gt; Safe, Full driver and passenger front airbags and side airbags for head and thorax protection come standard.
%26gt; Safe, tridion safety cell protects you in a crash
CONS:
%26gt; Only seats 2 people
%26gt; STUPID CLUELESS People who are WRONG will tell you it's unsafe
Get the Smart Car, the ESP can deal with the slick roads.
the con is that you will not survive a crash in this little tin box.
one day some mexican will be barrelling thru like a bat outta hell driving a 4x4 chevy , run you over, and not even see you.
if you buy one of these things.....please get life insurance. Your
relatives and next of kin will thank you.|||good car and good reports/it is what it is|||Pros they fit everywhere and they are eco-friendly
Cons I you get hit your car finishes all messed and almost unfixable in winter conditions the tires slip a bit,but they are good cars|||DO NOT LISTEN TO ANYONE WHO SAYS THEY ARENT SAFE. ive gone through about every single crash test video for this car. it has a 5 star crash rating! they are small and light weight so they do bounce violently but when the car crashes, the front end of the car does a great job! i looked at a crash test at close to 45mph and the cars doors were still able to open. despite the small size of the vehicle, its safe! no one has died in a smart car crash yet so there must be something safe about them. i went to the dealership for smart. the car is made of extremely high quality steel. a new design from mercedes that started about 5 years ago. everything is framed with this steel. even the seats are welded down and framed with this steel and the car is very roomy on the inside, so getting crushed by the car is no problem you have to worry about. it has anti-lock brakes and stability control. lets say you go up on 2 wheels, or hydroplane. the car automatically shifts the weight to the side in the air and brings in back to the ground. go on youtube and watch the crash tests. this is a safe vehicle and i hate how people automatically assume the car is extremely unsafe. it is the safest small car in america. many people thank their smart cars when they do get into bad crashes cause the car kept them safe and allive though the car acts like a bouncy ball, its does protect the occupants inside. and on top of all that, the car has airbags everywhere. you would be crazy not to consider a car like this. plus, it gets good full consumption. about 40 to 45 mpg. easy to park. reliable/made by mercedes benz. and comfortable.|||A pro of the car is that you won't have to take your in-laws anywhere if you and your spouse drive to dinner.
A con. The car isn't much cheaper than a Honda Fit which has gas milage of 28/35 and 117 HP and 106 torque compared with the smart fortwo 33/41 and 70 HP and 68 torque. It will take you 12 seconds to accelerate your smart car to 60mph. Imagine trying to get out of the way of an accident or accelerating to get on the highway.|||Pros:
Here's my long answer with true facts and research, not just opinions.
- To start off the smart has some of the lowest insurance costs in all of the USA.
- Traction is very good in the snow (especially with snow tires.)
- It got some of the highest crash test ratings of all subcompacts
- It is owned by Daimler and Mercedes
- Some drivers with a feather of a foot can reach around 50mpg
- EPA Estimated 33/41 mpg
- Parks anywhere
- Great when gas prices are a killer
- Speed limited to 90mph
- 0-60 in about 12.8 seconds. The fastest recorded was by Motorweek at 12.2 seconds.
- USB 2.0 Upgrade makes the transmission shift faster and smoother.
- Tridion Safety Cell
- Exchangable body panels that cost not even a fraction of the cost of traditional body parts
- ESP - Uses Bosch Stability Control systems to help keep you from losing control of your smart.
- Hill Start Assist - so you don't fly back when starting up a hill
- Roomy - It fits some of the biggest people (Shaq bought one)
- Luxury - cabrio model - pano roof - A/C - iPod compatible stereo with optional subs - on 08 and early 09 models had Automatic headlights and automatic wipers
- Halogen Headlights provide the path through the night
- Rear mounted engine - helps to provide better traction to the road. It also eliminates the need for the extra bulky parts required for a front engine. Also without a front engine, the front end of the vehicle could be as space saving as possible
- Side airbags - an addon to the already rigid NASCAR quality safety cell
- Turning radius of 27ft
- Uses synthetic oil
- Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV)
- low MSRP sticker price
- custom made for you or pick up an orphan
There are 4 US trims available, all current model 451 smart fortwo…
The pure - $11,990 – all the essentials, nothing else, not even AC
The passion coupe - $13,990 – the smart in its luxury form, options go on from a premium sound system with tweeters, mid-range, and a subwoofer to the comfort package with leather seating, seat heating, power steering, and fog lamps, panorama roof designed by Bayer Material Sciences is included.
The passion cabriolet - $16,990 – this smart comes with everything that the passion coupe can have but with a cabriolet roof. One touch and the roof will open like a sun roof. Another touch and it’ll move into a full convertible position. This can be done at any speed. To add on, you could remove the upper Tridion Cell bars to full the effect.
The BRABUS coupe and cabriolet - $17,990-$20,990 – BRABUS is just one of Mercedes Benz’s most famous modifiers. The US versions come with an upgraded exhaust system and suspension upgrades along with the BRABUS styling and body kits.
There are more models one could obtain in the USA by the “grey market” These are:
The smart city coupe – this is the original smart fortwo, made for Europe and is imported to the USA by G%26amp;K. These come in very limited numbers and are actually shorter than the USA model.
The smart roadster – this is the fastest smart to come off the production line. These had a limited production of only 5,000 models. These were never imported to the USA and got here by other means (military, ect.). These are extremely rare to find in the states and as the numbers aren’t solid, there’s probably less than 50 of these roadsters in the USA, making it a very rare find. They don’t have an electronic limiter so they’re top speed is whatever your red line is in 6th gear. Stock red line is at 125mph.
As for safety the smart has received the highest ratings of all subcompacts. And has received the IIHS highest rating of “GOOD”
In roof crush tests, the smart beat the competition by a mile because roof crush is over 9,000 pounds. It earned "GOOD" in this test aswell.
'The smart brand (spelled in lowercase by the manufacturer) is a combination of Swatch, Mercedes and ART. The Swatch company had the idea for removeable body panels, but is no longer involved with the smart'. The smart brand continued this idea of low cost, high quality removeable body panels to this day.
And because of this, the smart was the only car to pass the IIHS' 2.5 mph bumper test. The damage caused to the vehicle would have to cost less than $500.The smart's body panel totalled around $190. All others had failed because of their poorly designed and expensive bumpers.
The smart plant in Hambach, France opened its doors in 1998 rolling the first city coupe off the line. But smart’s roots go all the way back to around 1996 when ideas were rolling and the first “smarts” were on the road.
Additionally, according to Gizmag, the smart brand is the 5th "most reliable" car brand available in the USA. And this is just after only 11 years after smart opened it's doors.|||PROS:
%26gt; Roomy inside
%26gt; Fun to drive
%26gt; Great millage for a non-hybrid 33 city / 41 highway
%26gt; Low cost starting at $11,990 (Pure) and $13,990 (Coupe)
%26gt; Safe, Electronic Stability Program helps hold the slick roads
%26gt; Safe, Full driver and passenger front airbags and side airbags for head and thorax protection come standard.
%26gt; Safe, tridion safety cell protects you in a crash
CONS:
%26gt; Only seats 2 people
%26gt; STUPID CLUELESS People who are WRONG will tell you it's unsafe
Get the Smart Car, the ESP can deal with the slick roads.
Looking 2 buy a new car maybe hybrid or smart car, or electric?
own a cleaning business so we drive all over the state of RI. Should I get a hybrid car, electric, or smart car. Must be very basic and solid as the cleaners will be driving it and will not take care of it as it is their own.|||Malibu or Corolla.Small gas engine. Not hybrid electric or smart.|||i would get a hybrid, prius is an obvious choice with 46 mpgs. dont buy the smart car because it has a limited range and is not room, nor could it be a proper car for any delivery business. The vw golf tdi (diesel) gets 40 mpgs and is an excellent car. Honda makes great hybrids, such as the civic, which is very reliable. japanese is the way to go with this one, a malibu will barely nudge 20mpgs btw.
How much is a smart car oil change?
i have been looking at a smart car to buy and i asked the guy at the dealership how much it will cost for an oil change. he said $100 because of its special oil or something. is this true?|||Mobil 1 is what to use. That is the dealers price and it's robbery. There are alternatives.
http://www.smartcarofamerica.com/forums/鈥?/a>
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=teH0ZCO2o鈥?/a>|||That is dealership rates and the guy was trying to score extra beer money for the gang. Oil is Oil - it comes out of the ground just like any other brand. The filter itself may cost a bit more, because the car is new, but other than that figure it should cost the same as any other car. Why not ask an oil change place?|||Looks as though they are using a 5W30 synthetic oil, manufactured by mobil 1.
There is no way I would go to the dealer for service. uses 3.75 quarts of oil. with a filter change.
so if you bought that oil at a shop it would be around $7-12 a quart, plus the filter. Labour not more than $15 i would say it is under a $50 oil change at any other shop, dealership door rate and fancy inspection is why it costs more.
http://www.smartcarofamerica.com/forums/鈥?/a>
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=teH0ZCO2o鈥?/a>|||That is dealership rates and the guy was trying to score extra beer money for the gang. Oil is Oil - it comes out of the ground just like any other brand. The filter itself may cost a bit more, because the car is new, but other than that figure it should cost the same as any other car. Why not ask an oil change place?|||Looks as though they are using a 5W30 synthetic oil, manufactured by mobil 1.
There is no way I would go to the dealer for service. uses 3.75 quarts of oil. with a filter change.
so if you bought that oil at a shop it would be around $7-12 a quart, plus the filter. Labour not more than $15 i would say it is under a $50 oil change at any other shop, dealership door rate and fancy inspection is why it costs more.
What are the pros and cons of a Mini Cooper S and a Smart Car?
I'm trying to decide which to buy, I'm leaning toward a Mini but I need a convincing argument because someone else is buying the car for me. If you have any support such as articles, that is greatly appreciated.|||2008 MINI Cooper S Reviews|||Wait for the clubman, mini. You already asked this question before..... I still think the Mini is da way to go!
ZUG|||If this will be your only car, the Mini is definitely the way to go. At least the Mini has rear seats and some storage area when the rear seats are folded down.
The Smart car makes a poor sole vehicle but as a secondary car or commuter car, it can be an excellent choice. The Smart car has lots of room ( I've driven it ) for two people OR one person and luggage BUT not both.|||Honestly the Smart car is not very good. The Mini is OK for what it is, but it's interior is TINY and there is no cargo room for anything.
Look into the Honda Fit. It's fuel milage is only a little worse than the smart, but still better than the mini, It handles just as well as a mini and it has more interior room than either car. Plus it's a honda so it will be reliable as anything.|||Get a ferrari
ZUG|||If this will be your only car, the Mini is definitely the way to go. At least the Mini has rear seats and some storage area when the rear seats are folded down.
The Smart car makes a poor sole vehicle but as a secondary car or commuter car, it can be an excellent choice. The Smart car has lots of room ( I've driven it ) for two people OR one person and luggage BUT not both.|||Honestly the Smart car is not very good. The Mini is OK for what it is, but it's interior is TINY and there is no cargo room for anything.
Look into the Honda Fit. It's fuel milage is only a little worse than the smart, but still better than the mini, It handles just as well as a mini and it has more interior room than either car. Plus it's a honda so it will be reliable as anything.|||Get a ferrari
Is a 1999 subaru forester a smart car choice?
I have about 4000 dollars to spend on a car and I have always loved the subaru forester, so i was thinking of getting a 1999 since it falls in my price range. Does anyone know if these are good cars and how many miles can they go ? Thanks !|||If you take good care of it and it's been taken good care of, you can get 400,000 miles or more out of it. Make sure that the timing belt has been changed at the proper interval and that all other maintenance has been done and you should have a car that will last a long time.|||There were two engines available on the '99 Forester. The better buy for you would be the 2.5 SOHC (single overhead camshaft) engine, available in the second half of the year and continued on with minor changes through today. The earlier DOHC (dual overhead camshaft) engines, though good engines, had head gasket issues almost as a rule after about 125,000 miles or so..|||Good car=yes, Miles it can go depends on care.
If it meets your needs go for it. Get it check out first before you buy it.|||Yes, that's what I want.
If it meets your needs go for it. Get it check out first before you buy it.|||Yes, that's what I want.
Can you drive a smart car for your road test when getting a basic license?
Is it allowed, or do you need to drive a regular car?
Thanks!|||yeah you can drive a smart car its still a car|||why not? its legal car to drive on the road|||can drive pretty much anything that you can drive smart car is nothing but a car nothing Special about it
Thanks!|||yeah you can drive a smart car its still a car|||why not? its legal car to drive on the road|||can drive pretty much anything that you can drive smart car is nothing but a car nothing Special about it
Can a baby car seat be installed in a smart car?
Do they have any baby car seats that can lock in the back behind the front seats?|||If there is no back seat mount it in the front seat.|||I cant give you any advice but you can look in the car owner manual.|||well u cant put baby seats in the front seat and i think smart cars only have 2 seats|||Does poop smell?|||yes
Can I drive my Smart car into London without paying congestion charge?
I have heard that this car is exempt from congestion charge as it falls into the lowest co2 category, is this correct? Also do i need to register prior to driving into London or can I just drive in.
Thanks|||No,you have to pay..|||The smart does not require a congestion charge. But I don't live in the UK so you might want to find out if you have to register it. But the smart's emissions are too low to reach the congestion charge limit.
http://motortorque.askaprice.com/article鈥?/a>
Thanks|||No,you have to pay..|||The smart does not require a congestion charge. But I don't live in the UK so you might want to find out if you have to register it. But the smart's emissions are too low to reach the congestion charge limit.
http://motortorque.askaprice.com/article鈥?/a>
Does anyone know if and where the Smart Car is selling in the US?
A friend just sent me this information and I have been thinking about replacing my old compact for a couple years though it still runs well as the gas mileage is lower than the newer ones. Have you seen the SmartCar, it's looks like a clown car but they get about 60 miles to the gallon. I don't think they are selling them in the US but we are only about 15 miles from the Canadian border and you can buy them up there. There are quite a few around here, in bright colors. The small one is a two-seater and they have a bigger one that holds 4. They run about $8,000, but I don't think the US will allow them a dealorship because they just don't use much gas.|||Smart Car is going to sell in the US, but as far as I know the marketing strategy and where it will sell has not been finalized. I think you will see it in the top 100 cities where Mercedes has a stronghold. You will not see this in rural areas unless people go to a big city and buy it. I have read, that as far as a car goes, it's a decent vehicle, but let's see once it's here in the US. Definitely a city dweller vehicle.|||yes the smart car is becoming available in the USA, but isnt it a bit too small for USA roads and highways, I d be really frightened to use it there, what with all those Hummers and big SUVS and such. Sort of car you drive around New Yorks Central park as a warden or something. Way too small !|||not which one u mean but there is a dealer in Palm Beach Fla selling some sort of mini car similar to one in the movie "Just Married"|||There's an RV dealer on the south side of Reno, NV who's selling Smart cars, but I think he imports them from Canada and sells them as used cars. I guess they'd be OK for driving around the city, but I wouldn't want to think about trying to do any long-distance trips in one...
Where can I buy a Smart Car?
I want to buy a Smart Car. Its one of those 2 door tiny things from Europe. I hear its legal in the US now.|||You can't buy the Smart Car, designed by DiemlerChrysler, right now. There is a waiting list and it's easy to sign up. Once you do, and once the car plants are set up in the U.S., you will be notified.|||Hey You can buy a car at www.domesticsale.com or www.sells2u.com|||Watch out guys.......Rich is trying to sell insurance
Do you respect anyone who drives the Smart Car?
its a mini car called Smart Car. When I see that thing drive by I get sick to my stomach. How far has technology come to create such a ugly automobile. Sure, its the most fuel efficient car, but also the most ugliest cat. Who ever drives a Smart Car deserves no respect. In fact, a car crash awaits them in the near future if they continue driving that thing.|||I just think they're totally impractical - you might as well be driving a golf cart? In my town, a guy wasn't recently killed in one; hit broadside by a small pickup. The pick-up had low-to-moderate damage, but the Smartcar was thrown and up-ended with heavy damage. I'd only get in one - on a golf course! :) What good is 'economy' when funerals are so expensive?|||The fact that they drive a Smart Car doesn't make me respect them. I see one of those things everyday on my way to work, and I can't help but think about how it would fit nicely in the bed of my Ranger. People buy those cars to feel good about themselves for helping the environment. As far as the 41 mpg thing - I talked to a guy a couple of months ago who has an early 90's model Accord with a 4-cylinder engine and a 5-speed manual tranny. His car gets the same gas mileage as a Smart Car, and it is more than twice the size.|||I respect the the driver but not the choice of car.
With gas at $1.95/gal I don't see the point of the car other that for pizza delivery. But when the price of gas was $4.50/gal, the Smart car looked like it had potential.
The Smart cars miles per gallon being 33 city/41 highway is not too impressive. A Yaris gets 29mph city and looks a lot better than a smart car. A Prius gets 46 mpg and looks better that the smart car.|||I have to respect them. Their bravery is off the charts!
I look at these silly little cars, that actually look like an egg os wheels, as I roll past them in my truck.
You know.....my truck.....the 80,000 pound monster that would crush that car into something resembling a crushed soda can...No thanks!!
Let's face it, the people who drive those pieces of garbage laugh at all of us, when they are at the gas pump, but we all laugh at them EVERYWHERE else!|||If they're driving it for the mileage then they should buy a Chevy sprint 44 city-55 highway. Too bad they only made them for two years. I guess they were too fuel efficient? Why is it that people are so arrogant that they think cyclic global climate change was caused by people?|||Yeah, I respect everyone driving the smart car lol|||most ugliest cat? ok well lets see. person who drives a car that saves them money$ or a person who can't spell and has horrible grammar skills? i respect the smart car driver.|||I don't respect them because essentially everyone who owns one thinks they are helping the environment...
words of advice, there are waaaay better cars out there|||i think they are jerks,,,god made non renewable resources so we could have eco unfriendly luxury gas hogs|||I chuckle to myself, im not sure about the whole respect part tho.|||Yes because their taking their own life in jeopardy.
In a car accident what is gonna happpen to you? its a death trap.|||No. I fear for their safety.|||Just wanted to say what Cthulhu Fhtagn said.|||you all know the other meaning of "smart"? it hurts!|||lol i hate them! smart cars? more like "special"cars
With gas at $1.95/gal I don't see the point of the car other that for pizza delivery. But when the price of gas was $4.50/gal, the Smart car looked like it had potential.
The Smart cars miles per gallon being 33 city/41 highway is not too impressive. A Yaris gets 29mph city and looks a lot better than a smart car. A Prius gets 46 mpg and looks better that the smart car.|||I have to respect them. Their bravery is off the charts!
I look at these silly little cars, that actually look like an egg os wheels, as I roll past them in my truck.
You know.....my truck.....the 80,000 pound monster that would crush that car into something resembling a crushed soda can...No thanks!!
Let's face it, the people who drive those pieces of garbage laugh at all of us, when they are at the gas pump, but we all laugh at them EVERYWHERE else!|||If they're driving it for the mileage then they should buy a Chevy sprint 44 city-55 highway. Too bad they only made them for two years. I guess they were too fuel efficient? Why is it that people are so arrogant that they think cyclic global climate change was caused by people?|||Yeah, I respect everyone driving the smart car lol|||most ugliest cat? ok well lets see. person who drives a car that saves them money$ or a person who can't spell and has horrible grammar skills? i respect the smart car driver.|||I don't respect them because essentially everyone who owns one thinks they are helping the environment...
words of advice, there are waaaay better cars out there|||i think they are jerks,,,god made non renewable resources so we could have eco unfriendly luxury gas hogs|||I chuckle to myself, im not sure about the whole respect part tho.|||Yes because their taking their own life in jeopardy.
In a car accident what is gonna happpen to you? its a death trap.|||No. I fear for their safety.|||Just wanted to say what Cthulhu Fhtagn said.|||you all know the other meaning of "smart"? it hurts!|||lol i hate them! smart cars? more like "special"cars
Is the smart car really smart?
it looks fit for a girl. it's cute as hell. but insurance for these are cars are really high. So is it really smart?|||think of it as a grown up golf cart.
sure it's better than that but..
if you just use it in the city for short rides it is great.
if you have a long commute on the HWY. forget it.|||Smart in name only. You're not smart for driving this over-powered golfcart. The IIHS tested this car, and the crash results make me proud to drive a big van or truck.|||Smart Car. Think ur smart? Wait til you get hit by an SUV =) think about it.....
sure it's better than that but..
if you just use it in the city for short rides it is great.
if you have a long commute on the HWY. forget it.|||Smart in name only. You're not smart for driving this over-powered golfcart. The IIHS tested this car, and the crash results make me proud to drive a big van or truck.|||Smart Car. Think ur smart? Wait til you get hit by an SUV =) think about it.....
Would you feel safe driving a smart car everyday as a daily driver?
With one of the lowest safety ratings for any car, its more like a coffin on wheels lol.|||Hells no! Those cars are ugly!|||Only if I lived and drove exclusively in a city. I wouldn't want to drive it anywhere the speed limit was above 30 MPH. The parking and manoeuvring would be fantastic, though. I'd want a turbo and some high performance and handling and braking upgrades too. They can't hit me if they can't catch me.|||Nope! lol
Answer mine too :)
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?…|||Oops cant drive|||Yes. But I would rather have a fiat because it's cuter.
I live on the edge of danger.
Haters gonna hate.|||I might feel safe driving it along a bike path, but otherwise, no.|||I feel safer on my motorcycle|||no,
even a slight fender bender would total it|||Not at all|||No, unless I have a death wish.|||cool story bruh|||yes
Answer mine too :)
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?…|||Oops cant drive|||Yes. But I would rather have a fiat because it's cuter.
I live on the edge of danger.
Haters gonna hate.|||I might feel safe driving it along a bike path, but otherwise, no.|||I feel safer on my motorcycle|||no,
even a slight fender bender would total it|||Not at all|||No, unless I have a death wish.|||cool story bruh|||yes
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