2008 Smart Fortwo: I Want the One I Can't Have

Even Jeremy Clarkson liked it in the end and he doesn't like Smart cars at all.

So I had to Google this car to get a full side shot.

http://www.desktopcar.net/smart/roadster/Smart_Roadster_Coupe_04.jpg.html

Looks like a 2nd gen CRX combined with an Audi R8.

A much more compelling car than the current Smart. I mean if it's only going to seat 2, why not this design, which seems just as utilitarian, but FAR better looking.

They stole the nose from a '90s-vintage TVR.

I have never driven one, but from others who have driven the Brabus Edition, I hear that it's like a budget Lotus Elise.

The Smart Roadster Coupe--so close to being fun, yet so far. Same clunky transmission as the Fortwo, plus a soul-crushing lack of the sharp reflexes you expect from its sporty layout.

It was such a letdown to drive.

and it's driving me mad

@stephen987, I love the TVR reference - yes, I appreciate that look!

Simply put, this car looks too fun. This is incompatable with green fashion movement right now. How could someone be taken seriously as an environmentalist with something that looks this good? The ForTwo looks like an air freshener. It says "sacrifice", and allows you to give a knowing sigh whenever you see brutush, fun-loving petrol-heads enjoying themselves.

Here are some driving impressions

http://www.europeancarweb.com/longtermers/0508_ec_2004_smart_brabus_roadster/index.html

I saw a fair amount of these when I lived in Oxford, and I have to say, they did intrigue me.

Are there "the smiths" references in here? ...also applies to the cemetary gates post w/ the 1 series awhile back

I can only begin to think of some of the aftermarket mods you see on these. Pity really.

Not gorgeous, but I'm intrigued.

"Simply put, this car looks too fun. This is incompatable with green fashion movement right now. How could someone be taken seriously as an environmentalist with something that looks this good? The ForTwo looks like an air freshener. It says "sacrifice", and allows you to give a knowing sigh whenever you see brutush, fun-loving petrol-heads enjoying themselves."

What about the Tesla?

^^I think the Tesla roadster hopes to take the EV movement maintream, by appealing to enthusiasts, whereas the GM Ev1 was too early for the culture and with technology that was too inconvenient. I do respect early adopters who put up with Priuses and ForTwo's, because they help generate a market for technologies before they are quite competitive. They are an important part of the R&D process.