Review Car

Is it hard to find smart used cars?

Smart cars offer fuel economy, maneuverability, and ecological benefits. Critics, however, suggest that other manufacturers have reduced emissions by providing hybrids and electric models, can beat smart cars’ gas mileage figures in some cases, and provide roomier interiors and power for multiple functions. The Yaris often beats smart cars in mileage comparisons, and provides more power for hauling cargo, greater range, and similar pricing.

Consumers are left to wonder how smart the vehicle may truly be. Regardless of their choice, operators should always include insurance pricing in their research, because the cost can seriously impact the bottom line of operating expenses.

Be sure to have the right auto insurance for your used smart car by entering your ZIP code into the FREE comparison tool above!

What is a Smart Car?

Smart cars were launched in European countries in October, 1998, and their fan base grows yearly. The compact, unique design offers operators a way to express individuality. The manufacturer distinguishes its brand by suggesting the term is generic—the “smart” in smart cars is not capitalized. New versions sell for around $16,000, making new car ownership a realistic option for many people.

The vehicle enjoys great popularity for congested city driving because the subcompact can maneuver easily and park in tight spaces, where other cars will not fit. Electric versions are currently testing in the UK, and diesel models get substantially better mileage, but diesel smart cars remain unavailable in the United States.

Smart Car Details

Smart cars offer many of the advanced options and trims available from more expensive vehicles. These include some of the following features.

• The Fortwo smart car generates 71 horsepower and 68 pound-feet of torque. The engine is located in the rear to allow room for a crumple zone in front to enhance safety. The engine is a 1.0-liter, three-cylinder dynamo.
• The small size might frighten some passengers, but the vehicle performs adequately due to innovative design that includes a front crumple zone, a passenger cage of high-strength steel, and intelligent axle placement. Side air bags, antilock brakes, and traction and stability controls contribute to passing frontal crash test scores and excellent side collision ratings.
• The smart car delivers an EPA rating of 41 miles per gallon (mpg) on the highway and 33 mpg for city driving. The gas tank holds 8.7 gallons of premium gasoline, which is recommended.
• New models are sold through Mercedes-Benz and independent dealerships in the United States.
• The car seats the driver and one additional passenger. Three of these vehicles can fit into the space that traditional sedans occupy.
• A dual transmission offers operators the option to switch between automatic or five-speed operation.
• A central locking system provides security, and two-spoke leather steering wheels enhance the interior environment.
• High-tech features include stability assist and hill assist functions.
• Smart cars cost substantially less than most new automobiles. Factory orders average around $16,000 or $17,500 with upgrades for the hatchback edition. A convertible Cabrio version completes the current offerings, and trim levels include Pure and Passion.

Locating Used Models

Consumers must go on a waiting list for new smart cars, and it usually takes about eight months for delivery. The novelty and demand might intimidate potential customers from looking, but an active used smart car market exists, and models come on the market daily. Consumers can also locate engine parts, used engines with one-year warranties, and spare parts from efficient search engines that cover salvage yards, suppliers, wrecking yards and dismantlers throughout the country.

Comparing the Smart Car with Competitors

The Toyota Yaris Liftback enjoys similar pricing and fuel economy, so comparison shopper must consider other criteria.

Smart Fortwo Hatchback Versus Toyota Yaris Liftback

The Smart Fortwo Hatchback includes:

• Safety – The Yaris has two additional air bags, childproof locks, and rear seating available for child safety seats.
• Entertainment – The smart car has auxiliary jacks for MP3 players and accurate sound production for an additional price, but is unavailable for the Yaris.
• Luxury features – The smart car has leather interiors and keyless entry, which the Yaris lacks.
• Passenger room – The Yaris wins by offering seating for an additional passenger.
• Warranty – The Yaris provides a basic warranty of three years compared to the smart car’s two-year coverage or an additional 12,000 miles.

2012 Fiat 500 Sport Hatchback Comparison

The Fiat 500 Sport Hatchback includes:

• The Fiat runs three to four thousand dollars higher, but it delivers 50 percent greater horsepower.
• The smart car gets three extra miles per gallon than the Fiat 500.
• The Fiat offers standard cruise control and a tilt steering wheel, which the smart car does not.
• The Fiat offers standard air conditioning, which costs extra for the smart car.
• The Fiat 500 offers 75.6 cubic feet of passenger room, while the smart car only delivers 45.4.

Chevrolet Aveo5 LS Hatchback Comparison

The 2011 Chevrolet Aveo5 model was priced $400 cheaper than the 2011 smart car.

• At 108 horsepower, the Chevy delivers 50 percent greater horsepower.
• The smart car gets six miles per gallon better mileage than the Chevy Aveo5.
• The Chevy has twice the passenger room, offering 90.9 cubic feet of passenger room.
• The Chevy enjoys tilt-steering wheel convenience and standard navigational assistance as part of standard equipment.
• The Chevy has front-wheel drive, while the smart car utilizes rear-wheel drive, enhancing Chevrolet performance during inclement weather.

Choosing the right vehicle requires analysis of many factors, including personal style, maintenance costs, convenience, and insurance premiums. Used smart cars may actually be easier to obtain quickly than new models. Enter the ZIP code from any geographic area and get an auto insurance quote to complete the overall picture.