... or just a Mini wannabe?

http://www.flickr.com/photos/sowellman/2408132690/

 

It's just small with no performance. It doesn't try to be a Mini.

 

MINI wannabe. It's ugly too.

 

I think Smarts are very clever (which seems redundant, doesn't it?)...one has to admire the clever packaging that went into the car. That said, I don't think it is any real competition for a MINI except maybe for those who want a small, urban runabout. MINI overall performance and practicality still win out, and the 2nd gen Cooper is certainly no slouch when it comes to mpg. Honestly, I could use one for most of my driving, but my occasional need for a back seat and cargo space makes a MINI the car of choice. That, and a MINI does a better job of just being a motor car...providing the superb drivability that all cars should really do a better job at providing.

 

i like em but also Nice environmental Tag he/she has there
if gas prices get any worse i am might hav 2 get one

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oPQIizRp9ck

If the Smart would have entered in to the US with a more reasonable price tag i would total want one

 

One thing I find interesting is that Swatch partnered with them on the exterior design and owners can pull off the door panels and change the color and look of them.

 

LMAO, I have never wanted a Smart as much as I now do after seeing that video...

Seriously though - "controversial" (to put it mildly) design, arguably high price, lack of practicality/space, optional power steering and standard 2 speaker stereo I can all deal with. However that 1L 3 cylinder engine with 70HP, 68lb/ft, 12.8 second 0-60 and 90mph top speed I simply could not. Especially mated to that horrid 5-speed automated manual.

Yes, I fully know that performance is far from the point of this car. It's just unfortunate that they weren't able to find a nice balance between efficiency and drivability like MINI has. It'd be different if the Smart was amazingly efficient, but 33/40mpg can be accomplished by a Cooper while offering significantly better performance.

If the Smart had even the performance of a standard Cooper I'd personally be all over it.

 

I would assume the Smart is not nearly as fun to drive as a Cooper...

Wait a minute, nevermind. I want one too

 

If I lived in the heart of a metropolitan city and don't travel far often, I would totally go for the Smart. It's quite practical for urban dwellers; beats Vespas on a rainy day.

 

That's probably a more realistic comparo!!

 

You must have good eyesight or know your Indiana plates. I can barely see that on the photo. I wouldn't have noticed that if I hadn't seen it in person.

 

its a good car if you live in the city. easy to maneuver, mostly you arent going over 50, good on gas. not cooper competition.

 

The problem is that in the US they only get 32mpg.

The mini does better...