Hello Everyone!

[supermann423]

Hey everybody, my name is daniel and i am a new member to these forums. i currently drive a 2001 toyota corolla LE, but i am very very interested in smart cars. i have always been a fan of them, but just recently i am in dire need of owning one!

[headless]

Hi Dan and welcome from across the pond,
I have had my smart roadster 4 years and love it, there is a great smart scene here and over there so it is so much more than owning just another car, hope you take the plunge, don't listen too much to the naysayers on here saying the transmission is rubbish, it really is something that gets better over time, and changing to a sports air filter also smooths out the change, remember it is not an auto box but a manual that clutches itself, so it is completely different to an auto.
I also have had 4 Corolla's, a Rav4, 2MR2's and a Celica, so I am also a Toyota fan as well.
Ellis

[Dunerunner]

Daniel - Welcome to the forums!!

[supermann423]

Originally Posted by headless

Hi Dan and welcome from across the pond,
I have had my smart roadster 4 years and love it, there is a great smart scene here and over there so it is so much more than owning just another car, hope you take the plunge, don't listen too much to the naysayers on here saying the transmission is rubbish, it really is something that gets better over time, and changing to a sports air filter also smooths out the change, remember it is not an auto box but a manual that clutches itself, so it is completely different to an auto.
I also have had 4 Corolla's, a Rav4, 2MR2's and a Celica, so I am also a Toyota fan as well.
Ellis

yeah thats one question/concern i have, 5 speed automated manual transmission...confusing to say the least lol, and whenever i look at pics of the interior i dont see any gear numbers or anything...?

[Suze]

Originally Posted by supermann423

yeah thats one question/concern i have, 5 speed automated manual transmission...confusing to say the least lol, and whenever i look at pics of the interior i dont see any gear numbers or anything...?

Well, Daniel, Welcome!

When you switch from Drive (auto mode) to manual shift mode, the gears are shown on the digital read-out on the console. Easy-Peasy!

Not confusing at all. If a 50+ (blush) person like me can manage the shifting without even thinking, it has to be a breeze.


Vrooooom!

[supermann423]

now..when your in manual shift mode, can you only use the paddle shifters?

[Suze]

Originally Posted by supermann423

now..when your in manual shift mode, can you only use the paddle shifters?

Nope - paddles or the shifter knob on the console, which I use in a turn, cuz I can never find the paddles when the wheel isn't centered!

Of course if you forget to shift altogether, the smart will eventually do it for you, but this must be pure torture for the little guy.


You might call your dealer and make an appointment for a test drive.

[supermann423]

hmm interesting, so no clutch also right?

yeah maybe one weekend ill test drive one

[Suze]

Originally Posted by supermann423

hmm interesting, so no clutch also right?

yeah maybe one weekend ill test drive one

No clutch, saves the knee. Is sacto your dealership? they were at Lombard street photo shoot - nice folks!


Have fun!

[supermann423]

well the closest dealership to me would have to be the one in North Hollywood.