Smart car virgin

[DMcK]

Hi, new here and have never owned a smart car before. I currently have a Mk4 Golf GTi turbo, but I want something more economical on petrol as I am driving more now and also and cheaper on tax. I've heard a few stories on certain smarts being unreliable but I do not have a clue which ones. If anyone could help me out or point me in right direction that would be great. I will be spending around £2500-3000.

Dan

[MrPoo]

Re: Smart car virgin

For that money, you're looking at a 450. They are known to be unreliable in the sense that they can need engine rebuilds at fairly low mileage, however this isn't as expensive as it sounds. They are economical though.

If you're prepared to sacrifice a little economy (45-55 mpg) I know of a 2007 Brabus model that's within your budget. The Brabus is widely regarded as being more resilient, so it would be more likely to be reliable.

[DMcK]

Re: Smart car virgin

Cheers for reply MR Poo I won't have the money for few months yet. So I've got to wait Does the brabus often need engine rebuilds then? 45mpg is not really sacrificing as my Golf does around 22mpg. So 45mpg is HIGH to me.

[137699]

Re: Smart car virgin

Nope, as a rule (there are exceptions) the Brabus doesn't need rebuilds - nor do Roadsters - the latter may be more appropriate for you given your current wheels.

[DMcK]

Re: Smart car virgin

What are the roadsters like? I really don't know what to get. Although I know my mind is set on a some sort of smart car. I do like the sound of the brabus fortwo.

[137699]

Re: Smart car virgin

Roadsters are low, quicker & more economical than the fortwo (because they're fitted with more powerful engines & are more aerodynamic) and handle about 200% better than even the Brabus fortwo.

But despite the fact that they have 2 luggage spaces, they're not particularly practical in comparison with the fortwo (even on the coupe version which gets the bigger glass-hatchback) - they're not so great if you regularly have a passenger as it's small inside.

But the driving experience is a class above - and as a Golf GTi driver I think you should drive a Roadster before you buy a Brabus fortwo.

We have both - the Brab fortwo is a great car - we have lots of fun in it and it's great for going to the shops etc., but I use the Roadster every day because as a driver's car, there is no comparison.

[DMcK]

Re: Smart car virgin

I will have a look more in to the roadsters. They seem like a pretty decent car. If more economical and faster then fortwo maybe I should go for that.

[137699]

Re: Smart car virgin

OK then you'll need to read this...

http://www.theroadster.net/trc/modules/articles/article.php?id=162

[DMcK]

Re: Smart car virgin

Ahh sweet cheers pal. Will have a look.