Orphan Hunting in the Free World...

[Carnut]

Originally Posted by Amethyste

I am getting an orpan too in the next couple weeks. I worked DAMM hard to get my dealership to call me when one became available. I think they did because the car orphaned is exactly as my specs are. Also, they know I love the car and they are my delearship. I gladly paid the reservation of $500.00

you know, the game is open to EVERYONE. If you REALLY want your smart earlier, there is nothing restricting you from calling people and getting your way. The squeeky wheel ALWAYS gets the grease. In my care, i called numerous times , was always courteous and pleasant. I think it helped when a car was orphaned, they thought of me and called me. In my book, it pays to be the persistent and tenacious one!

Don't you love it when a plan gomes together? There will be many cancellations due to the low buy-in of only $99, so if you REALLY want an orphan they ARE there. Keep calling and dropping by dealers, and especially ones out of your area, but not that far as to be a problem for delivery. Amethyste did exactly what other successful adopters, as well as I did, and that is courteously keep a high profile with the dealers. They NEED to get the car off their lot before floor planning eats into their profit.

This week I had three different dealers offer me an orphan. Even my local dealer called me, but alas a day too late.

[HENSgirl]

Thanks for all the great tips. I snagged an orphan on valentine's day. Key is to be prepared to move fast when offered a car and be flexible about what you'll take.

If you can't be with the smart you love, love the one you're with.

[smartyPantz]

yep, I spoke with/ emailed 3 dealers in my general area, since I am already on the list at what will be "my" dealer when my reservation comes due. (1391)
I am now on the list at 3 dealers, and in the "rolodex" of the one who just opened and doesnt know how they will be doing orphans and told me to call back.
I told them all that I would be interested in ANY config of a Passion. One told me he has a black/silver orphan right now, and most of the folks on his list of 40 orphan hunters have specs and would I be interested in it if he gets thru the list to me? I said YES!!
i am not picky about color or anything... just that it is a Passion Coupe. I like all the colors, and this would keep me from having to decide!

[Smartdavis]

Originally Posted by smartyPantz

i am not picky about color or anything... just that it is a Passion Coupe. I like all the colors, and this would keep me from having to decide!

My reservation was a yellow/black/beige cabrio and I was offered a red/black/red passion orphan. Maybe in a few months I'll switch out the panels to yellow, but for now I don't care.