Smart Fortwo: The Ideal Urban Car for Europe, Worth Considering in the USA?

When considering a compact car, the Smart Fortwo stands out as an exemplary choice, particularly in Europe and Asia. However, its suitability in the United States can vary based on your location and urban lifestyle. This article delves into the pros and cons of owning a Smart Fortwo, making it easier for you to make an informed decision.

Pros of Owning a Smart Fortwo

The first and foremost benefit of owning a Smart Fortwo lies in its fuel efficiency. It is known for its impressive fuel economy, with claims of around 40 MPG on the highway with 91 octane fuel. This figure is likely its estimated highway mileage without stop-and-go traffic.

Another significant advantage is the size of the car. Its compact dimensions make it easy to maneuver in tight urban spaces. The small size also means you can save time and money on parking by finding and using the tiniest available spots. Additionally, its narrow design allows you to sneak through tight spaces and its turning radius is incredibly small.

The visibility is excellent, thanks to its large windows. This feature not only enhances your driving experience but also provides a sense of safety and awareness in all directions. Beyond these points, the car offers a surprisingly spacious interior, making it comfortable for its small size. Even former NFL linebacker James Harrison once showed up to training camp in a Smart Fortwo, indicating its surprising practicality.

Maintenance: The recommended interval for oil changes is every 10000 miles or 1 year, depending on whichever comes first. It requires only 3.5 quarts to fill, making it a cost-effective vehicle in terms of maintenance.

Cons of Owning a Smart Fortwo

While the Smart Fortwo has many advantages, it also has some limitations. The car may not be the best choice if you prioritize speed and acceleration. It is one of the slower cars in terms of 0-60 speed and maxes out at 90mph in the U.S. However, for daily local driving, it is perfectly sufficient.

The smoothness of the ride can be an issue, particularly with its manual transmission that is computer-controlled in automatic mode. It might feel "jumpy" from the very first day, and you need to get a feel for the accelerator to avoid flooring it.

Maintenance and repairs can also be a concern. If you don't live near a Smart service center, finding a mechanic who knows how to work on a Fortwo can be challenging. Even if you live near a service center, the cost can be high, and the slow-down can be problematic for busy repair shops. Learning to do the basic maintenance yourself can be a good alternative.

Lastly, the limited seating capacity is a con. The Smart Fortwo is designed for two people, making it impractical for transporting more than one passenger at a time. There are no seats for a third person in the back, and even when one was crammed in, it was not recommended for safety reasons.

A Personal Experience with the Smart Fortwo

From personal experience, I own a late second-generation Smart Fortwo, the 451 gasoline/petrol, for more than ten years, and I have had no problems with it. It has been the cheapest car to maintain that I have owned, but I do take care of it. About a year ago, I had a one-week holiday, approximately 400 miles away from Berlin. I had a new BMW 7 series and a Smart Fortwo convertible. On the departure day, it was warm and sunny, and I was initially preparing to leave with the BMW, but after a few hundred yards, I made a U-turn and parked the BMW to get in the Smart. It turned out to be a pleasant and efficient ride, totaling 1000 miles with the little convertible, doing 90 mph on the autobahn without any issues. I am still thrilled by this experience.

Conclusively

Whether or not you should consider a Smart Fortwo depends on your priorities. In Europe and Asia, it is a hassle-free and highly economical option for urban driving. However, in the USA, particularly in less densely populated areas, it might be a less practical choice. It is important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision, as it is a significant financial investment. Hopefully, this information assists you in making a well-informed choice for your next vehicle purchase.