Breakin Period & Performance

[ladyguenivere]

I have read through a few threads on this list about the breakin period for the smart which is roughly 1000 miles. I received my smartie on 9/5/08 and so far I have treaded him very gently. As of yesterday I was up to about 640 miles. My round trip to work and back is 64 miles mostly highway and not always up to speed.

Yesterday evening I invited a friend of mine to take the Blue Pearl out for a spin. My friend John loves sports cars and races occassionally. His favorite right now is a Porche Boxter. We decided to go up the mountain to Romona, (for those who know the area), just to see how the Pearl handles. John pushed the Pearl to his limites but not over them. He said that working through the preformance levels helps the machine/computer sync together properly. The smart exceeded my expectations on performance, especially while in 'D' mode. He handled curves well, downshifted automatically when appropriately and had enought power to pass other people. I was very impressed.

I do not have a scan guage so I could not tell what the average consumption was on the trip, but I know we used up a couple of gallons in maybe 40 miles of twisty roads. I know a lot of you out there know a whole lot more about cars in general than I ever will and I would appreciate your comments.

Lady G
livin' smart

[Orphan-Beggar]

Originally Posted by ladyguenivere

I know we used up a couple of gallons in maybe 40 miles of twisty roads. I know a lot of you out there know a whole lot more about cars in general than I ever will and I would appreciate your comments.

John owes you money for gas

[Dave Van]

Not sure what you want comments on....but I'll throw this in....
As the owner of a Smart with 4000 miles on it and a owner of a Smart with 230 miles on it.....the break in is more evident on this car than any other I have owned. After 1500 miles the car really does well. The 'new' car is stiff and a bit sluggish....but after break-in the car performs better overall. (BTW both my cars are Pure base models...almost the exact same)

If you are asking if driving the car hard before break-in...I'd vote no...I am doing most things by the book...oil changes will be more often than book....but that's about all.

[smartHHO]

Originally Posted by Orphan-Beggar

John owes you money for gas

I agree!! and owes you money for letting him drive it!! And being your friend!!

[ladyguenivere]

Nah - John is a very good friend and has done much for my family. Besides - it was a great pleasure to see the Pearl perform so well and a lot of fun. Well worth the price of a couple of gallons.

Lady G
livin' smart

[smartcar08]

I have over 21k on my spedometer, the engine performs awesom still. 2 services later I still get excellent gas mileage and still very happy.