I got mine...

Willy · 04-07-2008, 07:39 PM

Yup, I got mine... my $99 refund check that is.

I've decided that the smart is not for me. I'm actually quite disappointed, but after actually seeing the car in person and reading about the first hand experiences that owners are having here, I've just decided that the smart will not meet my needs.

•First off, I'm currently getting just over 30 miles per gallon in my daily commute with my Focus. The smart's mpg would be better, but not that much better to warrant the money I'd lose trading in a two year old car.

•My commute is 50 miles each day, and most of it is on the freeway. I'm not impressed with what I'm reading here about the smart's freeway manners, not it's ability to handle major snow storms without snow tires. My Focus has no problem with either freeways or snow.

•My partner and I like to take long weekend trips. We often go to local wineries and pick up a case or two of wine, or maybe stop at art or antique stores in search of "treasures." I don't think the smart would be big enough to fit both of us, our luggage, and whatever we might bring home with us. This would force us to use my partner's Explorer for these trips, using MORE gas and costing us even more money.

•Finally, I depend on my car. I need it to get me where I'm going and back again without having to worry that it is going to leave me stranded. I've had that experience and don't care to repeat it. While I can't guarantee that the Focus won't ever break down, it has been very reliable so far. The issues that folks are having with the smart's transmission has be scared. Coupled with the ridiculously short warranty on the smart, I just don't care to take a chance.

Like I said, I'm disappointed, but I just don't think this car is for me. I've admired them ever since I was in Europe several years ago. They look like great fun cars, but not ideal cars for my everyday use. Besides, I've got my Miata for a fun car.

Wishing everyone with a smart car, and those still waiting, all the best. Hope everyone finds what is best for them!

Thanks,

Wil

spdickey · 04-07-2008, 07:40 PM

The grapes were never so sour, were they Willy?

Steven79 · 04-07-2008, 07:41 PM

Good post Wil. I wish you the best of luck!

gatchaman · 04-07-2008, 07:42 PM

boo hoo

:

Willy · 04-07-2008, 07:56 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by spdickey

The grapes were never so sour, were they Willy?

Not quite sure what you mean... I didn't intend my post to be sarcastic or to to put anyone off from getting a smart if that is what they want...

sparkyAZ · 04-07-2008, 08:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Willy

Not quite sure what you mean... I didn't intend my post to be sarcastic or to to put anyone off from getting a smart if that is what they want...

There's nothing wrong with being logical and practical about your car choices. Best of luck to you.

SmartBob · 04-08-2008, 03:04 AM

Willy: it makes sense to me. Many of us need to be practical in our decision. It's been said many times here. The fortwo just isn't for everyone. I don't understand the sour grapes reference either.