Smart Roadster Coupe (2003 - 2007) Brabus 2d Auto (2004/54) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

It screams individual. Brabus styling gives it a meaty enough look not to be hairdressers car!

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Sceptical until I take them for a drive - they cannot believe the engine is only 700cc.

Would you buy this car again and why?

I would as it's lots of fun to drive and the economy is incredible. I get no less than 49mpg no matter how I drive it. I will be selling at the end of summer purely because I need a little more space, and the service intervals are too small.

What are you likely to buy next?

Something a bit bigger, but want to retain economy and striking looks. Could be a Nissan Juke...

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£7,500

When did you buy the car?

October 2009

Did you get a good deal and why?

Reasonable deal at the time as came with Mercedes 1 year warranty. Wouldn't budge on price as they know how the rare the car is so they didn't need to try and sell it.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Unique, fun to drive, fast enough, and cheap to run

What was the dealer like?

Not too bad main dealers go - Stratstone in Blackpool. Probably wouldn't go back to them unless in the same situation of trying to find a rare car

What's it like to drive?

Awesome to drive - impressive acceleration only bound by the gearbox. In fairness with practice I have grown to like the gearbox but initially it can be frustrating. The 0-60 time is mostly taken up from launch in 1st gear. 20 - 60 is rapid. Cornering ability is excellent. Bumpy ride obviously but doesn't bother me overly.

What's it like to park?

Rear visibility isn't great in the coupe, but it's tiny so easy. Read another review mentioned changing lanes was difficult - I think the mirrors are the best I've had, as the wheelbase is so short there is no blind spot so no need to look over your shoulder.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Had no problems other than hitting a pot hole and buckling an alloy - expensive! Regular and short service intervals aren't ideal if like me you do a lot of miles

What's most practical about your car?

That is not the point of a roadster! But, in coupe form you can actually fit a lot of stuff in - easily enough for two people for a whole week away.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

The roof goes up and down at any speed, genius. Heated seats are great in winter. Standard stereo is rubbish, will be your first upgrade.