It's basically a slow-shifting auto that lets you think you're in control.

Hmm...no it's not, it's a sequential gearbox without a clutch pedal.

I think the reason it might feel a bit slower is because when you push the gear lever/paddle, it has to disengage the clutch, change gear then re-engage the clutch.

Would wager the time it takes the smart to change gear really isn't much different than how long it would take to do it manually - if it does, you aren't driving it right...

Rob.

Funny you are looking at Smart Brabus coupe Walkie, I have just been reading up on the ForFour Brabus in the past couple of days, take it one of those wouldn't tempt you? Gets excellent reviews, although dont sit as r's-scrapingly close to the ground compared to the coupe...

Funny you are looking at Smart Brabus coupe Walkie, I have just been reading up on the ForFour Brabus in the past couple of days, take it one of those wouldn't tempt you? Gets excellent reviews, although dont sit as r's-scrapingly close to the ground compared to the coupe...

I did take a look at one in the showroom, although a very smart car indeed (no pun intended, honestly), it just wouldnt feel a million miles away from the Fabia I currently own.

It's still a hatch back, around the same BHP (although I believe the ForFour Brabus would whoop the Fabia) Has 5 doors and your sat in at a simular height as the Fabia.

Hmmmmmmm.... Tamworth smart dealer........ dammit - I've seen one. test drive here I come

Having driven a normal Smart Car, the 'flappy-paddle' gearbox is not good! It's basically a slow-shifting auto that lets you think you're in control.

See thread from davidcollins01, ref gear change, having driven the roadster, that is really the only way to keep power to the wheels, and virtually remove lag from gear change.

well if any of you need a deal on a smart (or a merc for that matter) give me call... have a few to choose from... well about 200 mercs/smarts in group stock.

As the Roadster isn't being made anymore, I reckon that a used Brabus Roadster with the leak kit work completed (ask !) at the right price is a sound enough bet.

well if any of you need a deal on a smart (or a merc for that matter) give me call... have a few to choose from... well about 200 mercs/smarts in group stock.

I'll bear that in mind, let me check my last nights lottery and i'll let you know whether I am after a Smart or a Merc

Regarding the engine note in my little review I found this clip on google video, you can hear the little wastegate to

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=554361605986374967&q=roadster

Went along to the Tamworth Smart dealer to find its moved to Birmingham :( So never got my test drive.