Cross winds: Does it handle like a 70's VW

[Westfield 11]

I brought up the tire pressures since some hypermilers inflate to the sidewall maximum in search of maximum mileage.
I will say that this is a "two hand" car in that it does not feel comfortable to drive with only one hand on the wheel, but that is probably just me.

[parnami]

Originally Posted by Westfield 11

I I will say that this is a "two hand" car in that it does not feel comfortable to drive with only one hand on the wheel, but that is probably just me.

I feel the same way though I suspect it has more to do with the tiny steering wheel than with the handling of the car. The wheel is so small...the slightest twitch....is reflected in the direction of the car. I dread my first sneeze at speed!!

I also had an old beetle, vintage 67. I find the smart reminiscent, but improved, over that vehicle. It's also much faster, quieter and better built/designed. I believe the VW weighed less?

[PeteInLongBeach]

Originally Posted by Westfield 11

I brought up the tire pressures since some hypermilers inflate to the sidewall maximum in search of maximum mileage.
I will say that this is a "two hand" car in that it does not feel comfortable to drive with only one hand on the wheel, but that is probably just me.

Mine was a 2-hander most of the time (road grooves) until I lowered the front tire pressure a few psi. Now it's almost always an easy 1-hander.

[Dave777]

Yes, it does.

[SloPok]

Thanks to everyone for your replys to my question. I've test driven a smart 3 times but not for any amount of distance, a bunch of lefts and rights and a jump onto the freeway for an exit then off again. Not much of a test drive.

[pauldjv]

The smart is taller and the sides are a little flatter, so side winds affect it a bit more than the Beetle. That said, it's not a big issue because the smart is stable and easy to control - not something I'd say about my '70 Super Beetle.

[RVGRINGO]

When crossing over the mountain range with a first time passenger, from Chapala to Guadalajara, they always remark upon how well my Smart corners. I find it very stable on curves or in windy conditions.