"Orphans"?

[Frenzy_22]

Hello I am new to the whole Smart world. Sorry if this question has been asked and answered over and over and over ;)

How often does a person get the chance to bring home an "Orphan"? Is it a common thing to have one sitting on the lot waiting for someone to buy it?

My husband and I are going to our nearest Smart dealer on Friday to check them out. I am REALLY excited to drive one!!!! However, I HATE waiting for...well anything ;) Hoping there's just one waiting for a home.

Thanks for any feedback

[JPaul]

Well, there are three models available, yes three:
pure
passion
patience

The last one usually is "custom made to order" through the regular process. The other two can be available at random if you're lucky to find an "orphan" (fallout in smart's lingo). The less finicky you're about color, options (sometimes expensive add-ons) and model, the better your chances... Getting to know your dealer well ;) helps too.

[Frenzy_22]

Yes, yes... patience is a virtue;)

It's gonna be cool to actually see one up close

[bradgarbus]

Originally Posted by Frenzy_22

Yes, yes... patience is a virtue;)

It's gonna be cool to actually see one up close

They are even cooler to drive...

BTW - Some dealers have orphans ready to buy, the dealer here in SE VA has a waiting list for the orphans 300 deep... I understand the wait is well over a year for those that newly pay the $99, maybe even longer as the DDE isn't even giving them a date yet.

Have fun! The test drive will make you fall in love!

[SPDYII]

Go to the smartcenter in Sugarland. Put down a $500 deposit and get on their orphan list. Depending on how picky you are, you could have a car in four weeks or less. Others have done it. Good luck!

[drmickeyer]

Got my Orphan in Chicago. Went in April 3rd, got a call on the 7th and picked it up on the 10th. True about the more expensive models being orphaned more often. But then again 18K for a fully loaded Cabrio is a steal! Good luck and be persistent. I called my salesman daily to remind him to get me a car.

[smart teacher]

I made sure the Smart dealership here in Michigan knew I was really interested in an 'orphan'. I emailed a couple of times and let them know I was pretty flexible. I brought home my 'orphan' last night, just a couple of weeks after being on the list. Just be persistent.;)

[jefferios]

I went on an orphan list and a week later I was called.

I had to turn it down becasue I was told the wait was around a month, so I planned for that and I wasn't ready to accept it yet cause I'm out of state at college. When I get back they will start calling again. 1 tip, be funny and flexible and the orphan-ator will love you.

[fuelpincher]

Got a call two weeks after putting my name on the local list.

[NY Smartie]

I went to my dealer on 4/18 expecting to order one and also get on the orphan list. I drove home with one that night.

Just got lucky I guess.