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- Smart Roadster
Pros ? Fun. Economical. Unique looking. Good handling. Likely collector car for the future.
Cons ? Not too quick. Limited boot space. Were expensive new although better value second hand.
Smart Roadster is a two door micro-car launched in 2003 in Roadster and Roadster Coup? form. The Smart Roadster never achieved the profits Smart had in mind for it and it was taken from the range in 2005, after about 43,000 were made. There were early concerns over some initial models which leaked, stopping production and making extra work for Smart which hampered profits. They have been subsequently been unavailable new since 2006. Those who have driven Smart Roadsters though generally love them and it has proven to be fun to drive as well as offering good fuel consumption around 50mpg. Running costs have also been quite low, according to drivers. The car was also innovative, a unique super compact car which was practical and a decent performing sports vehicle. The look was very different from the regular Smart. It had a normal-looking bonnet and a low build, unlike the upright classic Smart, and all four wheels were the same size. Mechanicals were similar though with the rear mounted three-cylinder turbocharged engine. The steering, suspension, gears, brakes and interior were similar to the initial Smart cars although the handling was improved. The Roadster version offered an electrical folding canvas roof and removable roof bars. The Roadster Coupe had a removable glass rear hatch. The cabrio version was especially popular with a new generation of drivers, especially in Europe. Given its limited sales run and the fact many consider it a design classic the unique look means it looks set to be a collector car at some time in the future. The last one is in the Mercedes-Benz Museum.
