11/24/2023 0 Comments Smart car transmissionHow many miles will a Smart Fortwo last?īoth generations are quite durable and reliable. We saw new front and rear fascias, along with the badge relocation and similar minor tweaks. The 2013 update, on the other hand, was more about exterior updates. The company also offered an optional 6.5-inch infotainment screen and surround audio system. Finer materials were introduced, along with new round air vents, new instrument clusters and standard knee airbags. The first one happened in 2011, and that one was mostly about interior changes. Smart updated the second generation twice. The top speed is the same but acceleration from 0 to 100km/h takes only 10 seconds. The new engine was also offered with a turbocharger, which upped the max output to 62kW and the torque to 120Nm. The new model significantly improved in performance, with an 11-second 0-100km/h time and a 145km/hr top speed. The 6-speed automated manual transmission was replaced with a 5-speed unit. The Mercedes 0.7-litre engine was replaced with a bigger and more powerful three-cylinder unit from Mitsubishi, which eventually turned out to be more reliable.īase models were equipped with a naturally aspirated version of this engine, with a max output of 52kw and 92Nm of torque. The biggest change happened under the hood. It measures 1867mm in wheelbase, while the overall length went up to 2695 millimetres. DimensionsĪlso, it’s worth mentioning that the second generation is bigger, with a longer wheelbase. We saw a new exterior design, though the basics remained the same. The second generation brought evolutionary changes. The Second Generation of Smart Fortwo (2008-2016) The first generation featured a 6-speed unit. This automated manual transmission featured a floor-mounted shifter or optional steering-wheel-mounted paddles. The clutch is computer-controlled via electrohydraulic, which means that there is no clutch pedal. On the other hand, the significant benefit from such a small displacement and power comes in the form of excellent fuel economy, which goes under 5L/100km in a combined ride.Īnother exciting aspect of Smart Fortwo is the Getraq-designed transmission, which was considered novel at the time. That is enough to ensure a 0-100km/h sprint in 15 seconds and a top speed is 135 km/h. So, all Australian versions feature a max output of 45kW and 95 Nm of torque. The initial model for the Australian market, the 2005 Smart Fortwo, came with a familiar 0.7-litre turbo three-cylinder engine from Mercedes, upgraded in 2002. The kerb weight goes between 750 and 800 kilograms, depending on the configuration. With this small size, it’s no wonder that it needs a turning circle of only 8.7m. The first-generation model features a 1,812mm wheelbase and 2,500mm overall length. Of course, tiny dimensions are the first thing that comes to mind about the Smart Fortwo. At the front, the axle featured a typical McPherson strut with coil springs and an anti-roll bar. What’s particularly interesting is the return of the good-old De Dion design rear axle. The suspension setup is relatively simple. Like in other parts of the world, the model for the Australian market was also offered in two body styles-coupe and convertible. Of course, the first thing you’ll notice is its mono-box design and small dimensions, but more unique technical solutions were under the skin.īesides an interesting seating position, the original Smart Fortwo features an interesting layout-the engine is mounted on the rear axle behind the seats, with the radiator/cooling system at the front. This tiny package surprisingly came full of exciting design solutions. After developing the car for five years, they eventually introduced the first generation in 1998, while the Smart Fortwo Australia debuted five years later. Hayek initially approached Volkswagen for this project, but the management wasn't convinced with the idea, so the joint venture with Mercedes-Benz came to be. They did realise their goal of a Smart Fortwo electric version but only in 2018 with the third generation. The general idea was to offer a small city car that focuses on manoeuvrability, and it should come with a hybrid or electric powertrain at some point. It was the brainchild of Nicolas Hayek, the founder and former owner of Swatch. It’s interest to note that the development of this small city car began in the early 90s. The first generation of Smart Fortwo car was originally introduced in 1998, but the Australian version wasn’t released here until 2004, and only for only three years. The First Generation of Smart Fortwo (2004-2008) So far, there are already three generations of this tiny city, with the first and second reaching Australia in 20, respectively, but not the third. Did you know that the idea behind Smart Fortwo came from a watch/jewellery guy and not a car engineer? Yes, this tiny car was originally a project of Nicolas Hayek, best known as the founder and owner of the Swiss watch company Swatch.
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