What a deal!!!!!!!

[Unclewaldo]

Am I missing something or is the German Smart that much better? Seems way out of line for the price.

Since I cant post links or photos yet just do a search on Dallas craigslist for

2006 German Smart Fortwo Pulse

[JPaul]

One major detail that the ad didn't mention: it's the "old" 450.
Sure...

This is NOT the US version. This car was actually brought from Germany. There are several differences between the German and US versions.
The German version is built bumper to bumper by Mercedes
The US version has a Mitsubishi engine
The German version gets approx 65 mpg while the US gets approx 40
The German version weighs 600 pounds more, due to added safety features
The German version is actually 3 inches shorter in length

... but it hasn't been produced since 2007, was imported as a "grey" market car which explains the rather steep price. Check the various threads in Original smart fortwo (450) - Smart Car of America Forums for more.

[belkin666]

Originally Posted by Unclewaldo

Am I missing something or is the German Smart that much better? Seems way out of line for the price.

Since I cant post links or photos yet just do a search on Dallas craigslist for

2006 German Smart Fortwo Pulse

Yes, it's that much better!

[rfernatt]

Actually, I believe the new generation 451 weighs a couple hundred pounds more since it is larger and engineered to meet US specs. And, unless you can do your own service or know someone who can work on a gray market import smart and get parts, there is no support from US smart centers.

I'm sure the 450 is fun, but unless it was strictly a recreational vehicle that I could maintain myself and I could wait for parts if needed, I wouldn't choose a 450 over a 451. But, that's just my opinion...

[Mike T]

65 MPG out of the 698 cc gasoline engine? Downhill and with a tailwind, yes. Expect lifetime FE of 45-50 US MPG from one of those.

[RVGRINGO]

I think the poster is using the 'imperial gallon' as many in the UK and Canada still do.
Frankly, the 450 seems to be much better built than the 451; probably because they built it for almost ten years. Ours, bought new in Guadalajara for $13,700 USD, and one of the last 2007 models, has been absolutely trouble-free. We average the equivalent of 40-44 MPG and have done nothing to it beyond the normal 15,000 Km service and a subsequent 'annual' oil change. It is disturbing to read of the many problems encountered with the 'USA version'. Surprisingly, we don't see these same problems with the 451 European version sold in Mexico. It would be interesting to hear from our Canadian friends, as I suspect that they are now getting the European version as well. The only advantage that I can see with a 'grey market 450' would be the desire for an 'original smart'. However, I would want to live close enough to Canada or Mexico, preferably Mexico, for service and parts that might be needed from dealers who don't discriminate and who know both versions well.
Let's put it this way: If we moved back to the USA, we would have to sell our 450 in Mexico but would probably not buy a 451 in the USA until all the 'bugs' are gone.

[BeSmart]

I have one of each and both are great. Doing my own service on the 450 has not been a problem. They each have their own quirks, that's what makes them smarts. Love 'em both.