NVH and engine sound - Smart Car of America Forums : Smart Car Forum

MikeJCW · 01-16-2008, 10:17 AM

For those who have driven the little Smartie (unfortunately I have not), is there much in the way of noise-vibration-harshness? How are the levels?

Can someone describe what the 3-banger sounds like? I have only seen and heard them in Europe but as it was a few years back I do not recall.

SmartAzz · 01-16-2008, 10:28 AM

Sounds like half a 6 cylinder

Sorry, couldn't resist

Actually I'm curious to hear the replies as I have not driven one yet either. Insofar I don't recall seeing complaints about it in reviews I've read - perhaps it is because the engine has good insolation and/or is isolated enough under the car in the rear.

MikeJCW · 01-16-2008, 10:34 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SmartAzz

Sounds like half a 6 cylinder

Sorry, couldn't resist

Good one!

24-42 · 01-16-2008, 10:47 AM

Next time you listening to a 6 cly..... Cover 1 ear.

Couldn't resist that either.

What units of measure do you wish me to answer ?

Seriously (rats);
Go to 'Youtube' and search for smart car.

Donald LaFavor

Old smart · 01-16-2008, 10:56 AM

Smart451 has a pretty good sample here: http://www.*************/2007/11/shif...tween-1st.html

Lewis · 01-16-2008, 10:57 AM

I think the loudest sound we will hear for a while is Ca-chink-a-chinK as dealers "customize" their "fee structures" for their smartcars and SOME buyers try to make a killing on eBay. Once that dies down we'll be able to hear the engines.

**jwight** · 01-16-2008, 10:58 AM

Sounds pretty good to me; glad I didn't get the upgraded speakers though.

John

kmeinhold · 01-16-2008, 10:59 AM

Defiantly hear it and it sounds as small as it is. Very well muffled by the cars sound insulation. Not harsh by any measure - but not silent, except at idle.

mdfortwoguy · 01-16-2008, 11:47 AM

I've driven both the EU spec and US spec 451. The US is definitely a bit quieter.

You're going to feel it at idle... it's not terribly smooth, but isn't bothersome, either. Under way, it sounds like a slightly constrained and lumpy 4 cylinder. If you stomp the pedal, it has quite a sporty growl to it - definitely not what I would expect from a 3 cylinder. Overall, it is quieter than my 2002 4 cylinder/5 speed Saturn VUE... the VUE feels (and is) buttery smooth by comparison, but definitely not as engaging.