Thinking of buying a Smart car

[Suetheramble]

Thinking of buying a smart car (RHD).
There seems to be loads of different types what type should I avoid and what type is the best? As the car has no spare tyre what happens if I get a flat tyre?
What are the weak spots when buying a second hand Smart that I should look for?
Is it easy to get spares?
I think thats it but any tips about buying would be appreciated.
Thank you

[Suetheramble]

Oops meant to add I would like to buy the tiny Smart car.

[TWR]

Hi, In case of a flat there is a canister that seals the Puncture within the boot, Myself, I think they are a cracking little motor as long as you except the fact that boot space is limited, No Probs. look for the service history, how many owners, check the clutch pedal rubber for wear ( might have been changed ) Up to now I have not heard any bad Info on them but they are very cheap to run.

[craft1948]

I love my Smart car - bought my first one 5 years ago - got the dealers ex-demo model with 75 miles on the clock for �2000 under list price.
I have a Smart Passion Cabriolet now because I am idle but like sunshine!!
All the models have the tiptronic gear change but you can drive the Passion model in semi or fully automatic modes. I am with the AA because even if there was a spare wheel I wouldn't know how to change it - I have had a flat and because it is flagged on the AA database as a Smart they know to send a lowloader if a new tyre is needed.
That is the only downside I can think of.
Car tax is �35 a year and I fill it up about once a fortnight. However if you are buying a pretty old one do be aware that the newer models have much bigger engines

[craft1948]

TWR - what clutch pedal? Smarts don't have clutch pedals.

[TWR]

You Are very Observant!!!

[craft1948]

I panicked for a moment - thought there was something else in the car I never used!!

[TWR]

Maybe Some will say an Excuse!!!!!! I have just serviced my sons 406 pug & was having probs with the??? You guest it
Sorry about that. ( Thats my excuse Craft lol ) I belive they are a cracking motor.

[Panic Button]

I prefer a bit of a crumple zone behind me.

[craft1948]

You would really have to be 'rear-ended' - the engine is in the back

[bednobs]

i also have a passion cabriolet and i think smarts are just the best car around - economical, can park anywhere, turn anywhaere etc. It is good for me because i am disabled and 1) it has a high riding position, so easy for getting in and out of 2) i can change gear with flappy paddles on the steering wheel (as standard - not a modification) and 3) i can change it to fully automatic if i am having a problem changing gears
i had a flat once, but i had breakdown cover and they took me to a tyre place
i cant really help you with your other questions because i have always bought mine new from mercedees

[craft1948]

me too bednobs. I bought mine cos I have severe arthritis and they are great for getting in and out of. I realised it was time to change from a sports car when I found I couldn't get out of it due to dodgy knees. Don't need more room as I sit in one seat and my Westie sits grinning at people in the other.

[sigma]

Smart cars do not have crumple zones which means that in the event of an accident any shock or energy is absorbed by the driver, passengers which could result in a greater injury being sustained than in a car with crumple zones. I would be very weary of travelling in a Smart car.

[Panic Button]

Oops

http://www.metro.co.uk/weird/article.html?in_a rticle_id=39480&in_page_id=2&expand=true

[craft1948]

I don't think it's so bad

http://money.cnn.com/2008/05/14/autos/smart_fo rtwo_iihs_crash_test/

[Squitty]

I will look after your street cred - you wont be using it ;-)

[Panic Button]

Craft, note that in that report it did well in the front and side impact tests.

What about the rear shunt, where I want my crumple zone?

[Suetheramble]

I think I'll get one
Thanks
Sue