- Willing turbocharged 698 cc engine
- Lightweight, agile body makes for impressive dynamics
- Surprisingly compliant ride
- Rigid body keeps scuttle shake to a minimum
- Steering is well-weighted…
- … but lacks feel
- In automatic mode, transmission provides slow gear shifts
- Noisy engine
- No spare tyre
Overview
Released in November 2003, the Smart Roadster was a two-seat convertible. Manufactured in Hambach, France, the mid-engined and rear-wheel drive Roadster was powered by a three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine that was mated to a six-speed semi-automatic transmission.
Suprex M160E07LA engine
The R452 Cabrio was powered by Suprex-designed 698 cc M160E07LA engines which had aluminium construction, a Garrett GT12 turbocharger (providing peak boost pressure of 1 bar), a single overhead camshaft, two valves per cylinder, two spark plugs per cylinder and a compression ratio of 9.0:1.
With a kerb weight of 790 kg, the R452 Roadster could accelerate from rest to 100 km/h in 10.9 seconds.
Body and dimensions
Based on an extended C450 ForTwo platform, the R452 Roadster was 3427 mm long, 1615 mm wide, 1192 mm tall and had a 2360 mm long wheelbase. In addition to its power-operated folding soft-top roof – which could be operated even when driving at top speed – the Roadster was also offered with a two-piece removable plastic hardtop that could be stowed in the rear luggage compartment.
Suspension
The Smart Roadster had wishbone front suspension with McPherson struts and DeDion rear suspension with wishbone coil springs.
| Engine | Trans. | Peak power | Peak torque | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Roadster | 698cc turbo petrol I3 | 6sp semi-auto | 60 kW at 5250 rpm | 110 Nm at 2250-4500 rpm |
Safety equipment
Standard safety equipment for the Smart Roadster included dual front airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control with corner braking control and traction control.
Features
Standard features for the Smart Roadster included 15-inch alloy wheels with 185/55 R15 tyres, a two speaker sound system with a CD player, air conditioning, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, remote central locking and power windows.
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