My biggest concern involves whether to go for the first Smart car or wait for the diesel or hybrid model- which I would greatly prefer. It would be so good if the company could let us know if these other models will eventually be imported before we buy the original gasoline model.
My Smart will be for zipping around the area, meaning local driving and streets saving fuel where and when I can. We have other cars for trips requiring highway travel, although I don't have huge concerns about getting on a highway. I saw lots of 'em on the Autobahn...not in the left lane mind you, but keeping up a respectable speed to the right.
I can't comment about how I will handle 0-60 times of 13 seconds having been driving cars that are all sub 6.5 second 0-60. Those that have driven the Smart cars say that they feel faster than the actually are, and are a hoot to drive. I need to slow my butt down anyway, maybe this will be just the ticket, (pun inteneded).
I still have the feeling that this is going to the must have item for '08, and that you can't go wrong buying one. If you don't like it I'm guessing with what appears to be shaping us as a very limited initial market, that you can sell it for what you paid for it for quite a while after your purchase.
A while back I'd read a few articles about the safety of smaller cars vs. larger cars and the conclusion I drew is that while smaller vehicles may not have all the safety features of a larger vehicle, they are able to avoid some accidents because they are more nimble. I'm also suspect that in a smaller vehicle one is more aware of their vulnerability, so they drive more conservatively (my theory). Besides, I don't want to live my life in fear and there are no guarantees in life.
In any small car there is always a chance of leg injury, I had read a lot of threads about this car prior to buying one. If you would like some real life experiences check the UK and Ca forums.
Many have had accidents with them, some claim the Smart saved their lives while others claim how well the car protected them, to the best of my knowledge, I never read a thread that claimed the injuries of an accident were increased because of the Smart car they were driving.
I was going to wait till I had more stories of comments made to me about this car, but I think this is a good one for this time.
While filling up last Friday a large weathered man returns form paying for his gas, as he walks past me to his vehicle, he commented
Considering no one mentioned the leg smashing, I assume there's some truth to it?
I saw a video of the Smart car hitting a concrete barrier at 70mph (same video?). The results were minor intrusion into the passenger cabin, but they also noted that a violent stop like that would no doubt kill the occupants.
So, from that video I discovered, and feel much better knowing, that if I were to hit a wall at 70 or so, I would die but would look okay at my funeral.
I don't let major accidents concern me. In the 36 years I've been driving I have never had anything more than minor fender benders. I attribute this to a good defensive driving attitude and a small bit of luck, (I don't drive like a chicken either - I go like hell most of the time). I take the same attitude as my wife, (an international flight attendant) when she's asked if she gets scared about terrorist activity. She just says that if it's her time to go there isn't anything to stop it.
Do what you can to protect yourself, be alert, always keep in your mind what you'd do if you had to avoid something, and know that the probability of that major accident is low if you do all of the above.
If you're really scared, then small cars and major cities are not for you. Get an SUV and pay the price at the pump for your perceived safety.
If speed is an issue, they have turbo especially developed for the Smart engine. There is a vast range of Smart car tuning accessories that offer better performance.
Even a part as small as a K+N filter can improve performance and of course you can go for a full performance and handling package.
However, the cars will get you off the ramp and on the freeway without any add-ons!
As for safety I still maintain these cars were made for and are ideal city cars, their safety side has yet to be proved on our U.S. highways?
Testimonial from a tall, somewhat seasoned smart driver.
Sixteen months, 27,000 miles, non-stop trips from St. Louis to Hilton Head, South Carolina (800+ miles). Two trips from St. Louis to Destin, Florida (770+ each). St. Louis to Indiana. Everyday on the highway. Driver (me) at 6'-6" with headroom even under the foam roof pads of my Mercedes engine smart... and legroom that even has me moving the seat FORWARD for comfort. Folks, for most of you, if you have minor concerns, they will be swept away with the euphoria of driving this little guy. It may not be the car for everyone (SUV culture is still alive and well), but for those that appreciate fun and originality in the driving experience, get ready to live that dream. ALL of our customers provide the exact same feedback... "I didn't have any idea it would be this much fun." Whether an owner now or in 2008, the experience will be a thrill.
The AutoGuide.com network consists of the largest network of enthusiast-owned enthusiast-operated automotive communities.
AutoGuide.com provides the latest car reviews, auto show coverage, new car prices, and automotive news. The AutoGuide network operates more than 100 automotive forums where our users consult peers for shopping information and advice, and share opinions as a community.
Today
Linear Mode
