2004 smart roadster Coupe review from UK and Ireland
"Excellent"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Small leaks, now remedied with new seals.
Paint bubbling around rear boot hinges (seems to be common) but have not got around to mentioning to the dealer!
General comments?
Reasons I bought the car :
1. Surprising performance from the 700cc turbocharged engine.
2. Great handling characteristics as standard, but I may lower the car because at higher speeds it does not inspire confidence - but still manages to grip to the road!
3. Cheap running costs - group 9 insurance, 50mpg - however needs servicing at 7500miles. Smart specialists only charge £120 for an 'A' service.
4. Creature comforts (esp after a VX220). Heated seats, leather, air con, auto wipers, auto lights, electric roof etc, etc. Be careful though because there are some lower specification models - make sure you know what you are looking at!
5. Looks - guaranteed to turn heads. Always brings a smile to my face.
6. Luggage space - we managed a two week camping trip to France. The front boot can fit a load of stuff in - the coupe boot provides yet more space.
7. Comfort - it looks small (and is!) but with a small engine it leaves more space for driver and passenger. Even managed to fit a 6'5" friend in with no trouble!
Other points.
1. The roof does leak (minor) but I have owned four convertibles and all have leaked. Annual attention to the seals helps.
2. The gearbox - perhaps the biggest failing of the car. But it can be very rewarding once you get to grips with it. Changing down early before a corner is necessary, but ultimately rewarding when you get it right.
3. The interior is a bit plasticky. DC should have invested more in this area!
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Model year | 2004 |
| Year of manufacture | 2004 |
| First year of ownership | 2005 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2006 |
| Engine and transmission | 700cc turbo Semi-Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 9 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 6 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 23 miles |
| Most recent distance | 9800 miles |
| Previous car | Vauxhall VX220 |
| Date of Entry | 6th May, 2006 |