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Having established itself as a frontrunner in America’s mini car market for many years, the Smart ForTwo makes its appearance this year with a sassy new design and a solid reputation for smart performance in crowded metropolitan areas.
The new Fortwo is better tailored to American drivers’ needs; it is safer than previous models, and we know it will capture the hearts and imagination of drivers who insist on a unique, classy car that’s environmentally friendly.
In keeping with the Smart tradition of presenting different styles for different people, the Smart ForTwo Cabriolet is offered in the Passion model.
Like most convertible vehicles, the Smart ForTwo Cabriolet features a soft, plastic rear window that folds along with the top.
While the unique and beautiful styling of the Smart ForTwo isn't best suited to long trips or mountain roads, it performs miracles in congested metro traffic and busy city centers, where it beats the heat with zippiness and verve.
The 2008 ForTwo, with its eye-catching, innovative design, will be launched with a new, three-cylinder, 71 hp Mitsubishi engine.
The engine is combined with an automated manual five-speed transmission from Getrag, replacing the previous laborious, six-speed model.
Getrag Corporate Group is the systems supplier and integration partner for transmission and drive-train systems. The group is the largest independent manufacturer of transmissions in the world.
The new drive engineering provides for a smoother driving experience and, despite the extra power, fuel consumption ranges are better. The changed running gear and slightly larger body make the Smart Fortwo more comfortable and safer.
While standard safety and optional equipment differs from model to model, all vehicles share the same Smart concept: high fuel efficiency, no emissions, and incredible styling.
The new Fortwo has improved handling and is better equipped for the United States than the exiting ForTwo model. DaimlerChrysler claims that the Fortwo's safety rating matches that of the Mercedes Benz C-class sedan.
The Smart Fortwo will be extended seven inches, and the weight increases by a few pounds because of added safety features and reinforced doors.
The H7 headlights feature projection technology and will be more aerodynamic. The tail-lights have been updated, and enhanced U.S safety features have been introduced, as well as more color choices and available options. The Smart has an ingenious and friendly interior, with 20% more room for the driver, passenger, and luggage.
The dashboard appearance has been improved to comply with DOT regulations. The sloped windshield is panoramic, and the windshield angle has been modified to provide new protection of pedestrian's standards. In addition, the power side windows are large.
The new Smart Fortwo embraces the Brabus appearance.
Engineering:
- Engine Type: In-Line 3-Cylinder
- Engine Block/Cylinder Head: Aluminum-Alloy
- Displacement (l): 1.0
- Horsepower @ rpm (SAE net, Rev 8/04): 70 HP @ 5,800 rpm
- Torque (lb.-ft. @ rpm): 68 lb.-ft. @ 4,500 rpm
- Bore and Stroke (in): 2.83 x 3.22
- Compression Ratio: 10.0:1
- Valve train: 4-valve per cyl. - SOHC
- Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection
- Rear-wheel Drive
- CARB Emissions Rating: ULEV-2
- Federal Emissions: Tier II/Bin5
- Direct Ignition System with Immobilizer
Transmissions: 5-Speed Automated Manual
Gear Ratios: 1st: 3.308 2nd: 1.913 3rd: 1.258 4th: 0.943 5th: 0.707 Final Drive: 4.529 Reverse: 3.231
Body/Suspension/Chassis: Unit-Body Construction MacPherson Strut Front Suspension DeDion axle Rear Suspension Stabilizer Bar (mm, front): TBD mm/none
- Rack-and-Pinion Steering: Turning Diameter, Curb-to-Curb (ft.): 28.7
- Power-Assisted
Ventilated Front Disc/Solid Rear Disc Brakes (in.): 11/8 Wheels:
All-Season Tires: 155/60 R15 Front/175/55 R15 Rear
Interior Measurements:
- Headroom (in.): 39.7
- Legroom (in.): 41.2
- Shoulder Room (in.): 48
- Hip-room (in.): 45.4
- Cargo Volume (cu. ft.): 12.0
- Passenger Volume (cu. ft.): 45.4
- Seating Capacity: 2
Exterior Measurements:
- Wheelbase (in.): 73.5
- Length (in.): 106.1
- Height (in.): 60.71
- Width (in.): 61.38
- Track (in., front/rear): 50.51/54.53
- Coefficient of Drag: 0.34
- Curb Weight (lbs.): 1,808
08 EPA Mileages:
- 5-Speed Automatic Manual (City/Highway): 34/40
- Crankcase (qt.): 3.5 incl. oil filter
- Required Fuel: Premium Unleaded recommended
- Coolant System (qt.): 4.5.
- Fuel Tank: 10 gallon – 8.7 with 1.3 gal. Reserve
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