2007 Smart
Smart Fortwo (2003-2007): review, problems, specs
The first-gen Smart Fortwo (W450) was introduced in 1998 but received a facelift in 2002, while being available both in coupé and cabrio guise. Over the years, the model received plenty special editions (some less useful than others), including a Brabus-tuned variant with 75 hp. Being built under Mercedes-Benz's watch helped the Smart Fortwo gain a big amount of favorable rep among potential customers, although the car itself was far from being flawless.
Pros & Cons
Pros
Strong Points
- hip looks
- fuel efficient
- easy to park
- agile in urban traffic
Recommended Versions
- look for the 61 hp Fortwo Pulse versions
Cons
Weak Points
- lacks adequate safety
- uneven ride
- chunky gearbox
- low practicality
- expensive
Stay Away From
- avoid Brabus variants
Attention
Known Problems & Recalls
- keep an eye on the gearbox as it is bound to experience some issues sooner or later
- one recall was operated for steering issues, due to incorrectly assembled lockrings
- another call-in targeted the matter of bad paint; in some cases, it was believed this could lead to the roof of windshield becoming detached
Car Details
- Drive
- Interior
- Budget
- Specs
Powertrain
The Smart Fortwo is available with a three-cylinder turbocharged engine with either 50 or 61 hp. Then there's the Brabus version offering 75 hp and the annoying six-speed semi-auto gearbox most of the clients complained about. For a car this size, the amount of power available does the job, especially in traffic-strangled city streets.
Handling
Parking is a piece of cake, but the Fortwo is a pleasure to drive thanks to the car's precise steering and partially-composed ride, but stay away from potholes and uneven surfaces as they'll send the Fortwo in a shaking frenzy. Since the Smart Fortwo doesn't like high speeds or twisted roads, so forget about highway driving because this car wasn't built for that environment. Body roll is rather pronounced, so make sure your trips fall under the laid back label.
Safety
Euro NCAP awarded the Smart Fortwo with four safety stars thanks to the car's protective safety cell but also because every Fortwo comes with ABS, double front airbags, and stability control.
Comfort
Fortwo's two-seater DNA doesn't mean this tiny car lacks space. Both the driver and passenger enjoy a decent share of space whether we're discussing headroom, leg room or shoulder room. The seats are not the most comfortable you've sat in, but they're alright for short rides on smooth roads. Other than that, behind-the-wheel visibility is almost excellent while the driving position encourages a relaxed ride.
Quality
The Fortwo is popular but in terms of quality, it could have done better. Resale values are not that high, and you should thoroughly check the car before buying used. Also, make sure you get a hold of the vehicle's service history.
Practicality
Boot space stands at 150 liters, which is above the VW Lupo (130 liters) but below the likes of Citroen C2 (193 liters) and Peugeot 107 (326 liters). Cubby holes inside the cabin are small and scarce but are assisted by the restrained storage space found behind the seats.
Infotainment
You'll have to settle for a CD player and that's about it.
Efficiency
Maybe Smart Fortwo's biggest ace up the sleeve is the extremely low running costs. These are possible because depending on engine choices, the Smart Fortwo will return between 57.5 and 55.4 mpg on an average; even the Brabus-imbued version promises around 53 mpg.
Equipment
ABS, electric front windows, driver and passenger airbags, as well as steel rims and traction control, are on the standard menu. Higher trim levels bring alloy wheels, a CD player, side airbags and metallic paint.
Acquisition
Go for a Smart Fortwo if you're looking to travel mostly around town while saving some money on fuel. Don't expect much regarding practicality, but the Fortwo will take you from A to B without a fuss and let you park the car in no time.
Click on a model to learn more about it.
Source: https://drivemag.com/car-review/smart-fortwo-2003-2007-review-problems-specs
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