Get one. They're not that difficult to maintain and mend, as the active Canadian crew demonstrate. Cheap, minimally environment polluting, cheap to run, easy to park, and an absolute hoot to drive.
They have in spades what nearly every other newer car lacks - character! You'll fall in love with them in a way you never would with a sedan or a pickup.
All I would say is buy very carefully in the first place. Maximise your chances of a good ownership experience buy buying the best one you can afford, and then maintain it scrupulously. The 450 in particular is an enthusiasts car, in that you can't drive it, thrash it, and never lift the hood like a normal car. However, if you check your levels regularly and keep it well serviced and maintained they can give good service - in that sense they, and the 450 in particular again, are ideal cars for folk who aren't afraid of a spanner and who tend to maintain their cars better that is the norm. Enthusiasts, if you will.
Even in the UK where they're relatively common, my 450 is a hit with the ladies. I'm a 6'5" 270lb ex powerlifter with a face like a hippo's scrotum, yet probab,y every 2nd or 3rd go at the petrol station some young filly comes over cooing, "oh, I love your car, it's so cute!" More than one has asked for a ride, and I suspect a few of them wanted a 'ride', but being very happily married they don't get it. Nevertheless, the ladies love it, it makes nearly everyone smile, and you're guaranteed a cheer wave from other Smart drivers.