Smart Roadster Coupe Brabus 2d Auto (2004/04) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Economy
Value
Expensive for what it is. Seriously considered 2nd hand Elise/VX220/Caterham 7, but settled for this due to manufacturers warranty.
Costs
Cheap to insure & very economical. However as it'll be services by Mercedes, the prices are steep. Plus servicing is required every 7,000 miles.
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On the road
Driving
Great little driving car with phenomenal levels of grip. Novelty of a paddle shift gearbox is great and makes it easier to left foot brake.
Performance
Awesome grip and pokey engine. Unfortunately, looks don't match the speed. Delay in the gearbox selecting a gear can be frustrating when pushing hard.
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Living with it
Reliability
Leaks, leaks and leaks water into cabin from wing mirrors. A/C pipe broken twice. Rusting wheel nuts. Dodgy electrics thinking the hand brake is on (when it's not). Slipping clutch. Mercedes dealers offer poor customer service.
Image
Just look at the passengers face when you tell them that it's a 698cc engine! But don't look embarrassed when the passenger asks why his feet are wet.
Comfort
A little awkward to get in. But, far more roomy than a Honda S2000 to Elise. The extra storage space the Coupe offers is a must.
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Security and Service
Security
Not alarmed & soft-top = prone to theft!
Service
Delays in ordering parts. Inability to fix leak (after 8 visits and countless seal versions). 'Forgot' to install front luggage stowage after service.
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Other
Leaks. Air conditioning. Rusting wheel nuts. Interior door handle came off in my hand (had to open by putting the window down and using the outside handle). Slipping clutch. Electrics. Handbrake lever. Dealer.
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
New
Would you buy the same model again?
No
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
No