The Smart Fortwo III Cabrio (A453) 1.0, produced from 2014 to 2019, represents the third generation of the iconic city car. This two-seater, two-door cabriolet was a key model in Smart’s lineup, primarily aimed at the European market where its diminutive size and fuel efficiency were highly valued. While not officially sold in the United States during this generation, the Fortwo has always been a symbol of innovative urban mobility. The A453 generation marked a significant step forward in terms of design, safety, and overall refinement compared to its predecessors, offering a unique proposition for drivers seeking a compact and stylish vehicle for navigating congested city streets.
Smart Fortwo III Cabrio (A453) 1.0: An Overview
The Fortwo III Cabrio, specifically the 1.0-liter variant producing 71 horsepower, caters to drivers prioritizing economy and ease of use. Its rear-wheel-drive configuration and compact dimensions make it exceptionally maneuverable. The Cabrio version adds an open-air driving experience, enhancing the car’s appeal in warmer climates. The A453 generation benefited from a collaboration with Renault, sharing components and platforms, which improved build quality and reliability. This model filled a niche market for ultra-compact vehicles, particularly in densely populated European cities where parking is at a premium.
Engine & Performance
The Smart Fortwo III Cabrio 1.0 is powered by a 999cc inline three-cylinder gasoline engine, designated M 281.920. This naturally aspirated engine delivers 71 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 91 Nm (67.12 lb-ft) of torque at 2850 rpm. While not designed for outright speed, the engine provides adequate power for urban driving. The engine’s power-to-liter ratio is a respectable 71.1 hp/l. Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 15.5 seconds, and 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 14.7 seconds. The car has a maximum speed of 151 km/h (93.83 mph). Fuel economy is a key strength, with combined fuel consumption rated at 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg), and CO2 emissions of 99 g/km, meeting Euro 6 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Smart Fortwo III Cabrio is instantly recognizable for its diminutive size and playful design. The A453 generation features a more mature and refined aesthetic compared to earlier models. The cabriolet version boasts a retractable fabric roof, allowing for open-air driving. The body is a two-door cabriolet configuration with seating for two passengers. Key features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), electric power steering, and a McPherson strut front suspension with coil springs and an anti-roll bar. The rear suspension utilizes an independent coil spring setup. Brakes are ventilated discs at the front and drums at the rear. The interior, while compact, is designed to maximize space and functionality. Trunk space ranges from 260 liters (9.18 cu ft) with the rear seats up to 350 liters (12.36 cu ft) with them folded down. The car’s small turning circle (6.95 m / 22.8 ft) makes it exceptionally easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Smart |
| Model | Fortwo |
| Generation | Fortwo III cabrio (A453) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0 (71 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.8 l/100 km (61.9 US mpg, 74.3 UK mpg, 26.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 99 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 15.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 15.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 14.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 151 km/h (93.83 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.7 kg/Hp, 78.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.9 kg/Nm, 101.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 71 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 71.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 91 Nm @ 2850 rpm (67.12 lb.-ft. @ 2850 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Rear, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M 281.920 |
| Engine displacement | 999 cm3 (60.96 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72.2 mm (2.84 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.3 mm (3.2 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.9 l (7.29 US qt | 6.07 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 900 kg (1984.16 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1205 kg (2656.57 lbs.) |
| Max load | 305 kg (672.41 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 260 l (9.18 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 350 l (12.36 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 28 l (7.4 US gal | 6.16 UK gal) |
| Length | 2695 mm (106.1 in.) |
| Width | 1663 mm (65.47 in.) |
| Height | 1552 mm (61.1 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 1873 mm (73.74 in.) |
| Front track | 1469 mm (57.83 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1430 mm (56.3 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 6.95 m (22.8 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 165/65 R 15; 185/60 R 15 |
| Wheel rims size | 5.0J x 15; 5.5J x 15 |
The Smart Fortwo III Cabrio 1.0 remains a unique and appealing option for those seeking a compact, fuel-efficient, and stylish city car. Its distinctive design and open-air driving experience continue to attract a dedicated following, particularly in urban environments.
