I drove to Philly yesterday from central West Virginia in the smart (about 8 hours of actual driving). I was a little concerned after seeing the weather report for the east coast, but decided to take my chances. Fortunately, the snow was cleared away by the time I got into the affected areas.
HOWEVER, I was subjected to two things that I hadn't experienced to such a degree in the smart and it gave me a better perspective on some of the complaints I've read. Although I missed the snow, I had also heard about wind gusts in the 40mph range associated with the snow storm. The closer I got to the coast, I found them. I never felt "out of control", but it was tiring on a long trip. So, those who have complained about susceptibility to wind, I feel your pain a little better. Of course, many vehicles would've been affected by the wind yesterday - the smart is just more so with the light weight. I really felt for van drivers, FedEx/UPS delivery guys, etc.
If I lived in an area that had frequent high wind, I would probably take a different vehicle if I was going any distance.
Secondly, the ride on a truly rough surface. I guess I always thought WV had mediocre roads, but I'm rethinking that assessment. WV has pretty good roads compared to some places apparently. It wasn't too bad until I hit Philly itself. I have never driven on poorly maintained cobblestone/brick and it will be an experience I remember for some time. Maybe the winter temps did that, but if I had to drive on a surface like that very often, I would take a different vehicle than the smart - a truly teeth rattling experience.
And, that was with the better riding 195/50 Yokohamas. I can't bear to think of what that would've been like on stock tires. Ughh...
So, there's my tale of walking a mile in another's shoes. It doesn't make the smart any less of a car, but emphasizes the point that no one vehicle is right for everyone or in every environment. I can't wait to get back to WV!
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