Convincing my partner that SMART is a smart move

THinSeattl06 · 07-24-2009, 10:11 PM

Our other car is a hybrid, and I'm replacing a damaged Subaru that I have disliked since day one. I have loved the SMARTs since seeing them in Paris, FR. I hate the way the Honda hybrid handles. Will this be any better?

John_H · 07-24-2009, 10:32 PM

It depends on what you like.

Some complain about the Smart being way too bumpy while I stiffened my suspension.

The lifetime cost of the Smart is lowest in a recent lifetime cost analysis for both gas and hybrid vehicles.

Do you need power? Some think the Smart to be underpowered (it would be if it kept the older European 40hp instead of the new 71hp engine) yet many of us routinely leave people far behind when the light turns green.

Some don't like the automated manual transmission. It's easy to take manual control over the no-driver-clutch mechanism but many people expect it to be just like their grandfather's automatic.

There's an unusual amount of space in the Smart both in room for the driver and passenger as well as grocery, luggage, even a full set of tires without folding the passenger seat down which you could do if you need more space.

Do you like safety? While it's small, it's no death trap. Take a look at safeandsmart.com for more info and real stories about how Smarts performed when they had to. I like that we're a smaller target and the structural reinforcements are substantial such as the square tube steel beside the occupants in the door.

NeWave · 07-25-2009, 12:17 AM

It's a very nimble car. Its no racer... but it's like a go kart you can take on the highway. If you haven't test drove one, I'd recommend it. It's The only real way you'll get the feel of the car.

Carl242 · 07-25-2009, 12:36 AM

Its not for everyone. It's like Marmite. You'll either love it or you'll hate it.

doenut · 07-25-2009, 04:33 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Carl242

Its not for everyone. It's like Marmite. You'll either love it or you'll hate it.

OK. So explain exactly what Marmite is. I've heart of vegamite (sp?), as in vegamite sandwich, but never this.

Old smart · 07-25-2009, 04:47 AM

A smart can be a good choice - if you know up front that it will fit your needs and expectations.

BTW, the original, and returned (post-Mad Cow scare), beef Bovril is better:

**JPaul** · 07-25-2009, 04:49 AM

Because of my origins, I'm partial to Cenovis: spread
Just as I'm partial to the smart because it's a sensible vehicle that happens to be really fun!

No interest or connection with... (usual disclaimer)

Padawan · 07-25-2009, 04:56 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by THinSeattl06

Our other car is a hybrid, and I'm replacing a damaged Subaru that I have disliked since day one. I have loved the SMARTs since seeing them in Paris, FR. I hate the way the Honda hybrid handles. Will this be any better?

I think the first step is for you and your partner to head over to your nearest smart centre and spend some time looking at and driving the car. It really is one of those things where you have to actually experience it first-hand before you can fully appreciate it.

BigWarpGuy · 07-25-2009, 05:29 AM

Coming to this forum is a really good idea. One can see the good and bad from those who own the Fortwo. I really like my little car. It fits my needs and my wants. I needed a good commuter car and wanted a street legal micro car.

forestacademy · 07-25-2009, 05:47 AM

Don't go to a smart center on a Saturday. Go on a weekday so you can get the attention and time you deserve.
Get yourself in for a long test drive. Not a 5 min test drive.
Many folks here were put off by the first drive, but kept their reservation anyway. When they got the car were amazed at how diferent it drove than what they rememberd from the test drive.
Test it in Auto and Manual mode, give yourself several starts and stops in both modes, as well as some Highway time.
Oh and have your partner drive it as well.