With the launch of the smart roadster and smart roadster-coupé in April 2003 the segment of the compact and purist roadster is being revived, which has not existed in this form since the 50s and 60s of the last century. With an engine output of around 60 kW and a weight of around just 790 kilogrammes, at 13.2 kilogrammes per kilowatt (9.6 kg per bhp) the smart roadster and smart roadster-coupé offer a power/weight ratio which is low compared with that of its competitors and this has a positive effect on the handling.

2003 Smart Roadster

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2003 Smart Roadster
  • Horsepower: 82@5252
  • Torque: 3000

The dynamic, agile two-seaters from smart offer a unique driving experience where the focus is not on the destination, but on the journey there. The combination of direct handling, excellent cornering ability and a remarkable degree of comfort make it possible to experience the vehicle dynamics more intensively than in almost any other compact vehicle of this class. The smart roadster and smart roadster-coupé are equipped with ESP (electronic stability program) as standard.

With a roof system consisting of a soft top and a hardtop which can be used together or alternatively, the smart roadster and smart roadster-coupé offer their owners maximum open-air driving pleasure. As well as a two-piece removable plastic hardtop that can be stowed and transported in the rear luggage compartment, an electrically operated folding soft top is available as an option for both the smart roadster and the smart roadster-coupé. This can be fully opened and closed even when driving at top speed - a unique function in the entire competitive environment.

The launch of the smart roadster and smart roadster-coupé next year is a first decisive step towards extending the smart product range and also the brand itself. smart is being extended from a single product brand to a multi-product brand so that the brand and the product are no longer identical. Nevertheless, the features typical to smart remain clearly visible in the smart roadster and smart roadster-coupé.