Smart Forfour (W454) 1.1i (75 Hp)

The Smart Forfour (W454) 1.1i, produced between 2004 and 2006, represents a significant, though ultimately short-lived, expansion of the Smart city car brand. Unlike the original Smart Fortwo, the Forfour was designed as a true four-seater, aiming to provide a practical and economical transportation solution for small families or urban dwellers needing more passenger capacity. Developed under the ownership of Mercedes-Benz, the W454 Forfour was a departure from the original Smart’s unique design philosophy, adopting a more conventional hatchback layout. While not officially sold in the United States, the Forfour was primarily marketed in Europe as a competitor to vehicles like the Fiat Panda and Renault Twingo, focusing on fuel efficiency, maneuverability, and a compact footprint.

Smart Forfour (W454) 1.1i: An Overview

The W454 generation Forfour was the first and, to date, only four-door model produced under the Smart brand. It aimed to broaden Smart’s appeal beyond the niche market of single-person city commuting. The 1.1i variant, equipped with a 75 horsepower engine, was positioned as the entry-level model, prioritizing affordability and fuel economy. Despite its relatively short production run, the Forfour introduced several innovative features for its time, and its design influenced subsequent Smart models. The vehicle’s emphasis on safety and practicality, combined with its compact size, made it a popular choice in congested European cities.

Engine & Performance

The Smart Forfour 1.1i is powered by a 1.1-liter, inline three-cylinder gasoline engine, designated M 134.910. This naturally aspirated engine produces 75 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 100 Nm (73.76 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3500 rpm. While not a performance-oriented vehicle, the engine provides adequate power for urban driving and short trips. The power-to-weight ratio of 12.9 kg/Hp and torque-to-weight ratio of 9.7 kg/Nm contribute to reasonable, if not brisk, acceleration. The Forfour 1.1i achieves a 0-60 mph time of approximately 12.7 seconds and a top speed of 158 km/h (98.18 mph). Fuel economy is a key strength, with combined fuel consumption rated at 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg or 53.3 UK mpg). The engine utilizes a multi-port manifold fuel injection system and an overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain. It requires 3.5 liters (3.7 US quarts) of engine oil and 4.2 liters (4.44 US quarts) of coolant.

Design & Features

The Smart Forfour W454 is a five-door hatchback with seating for four adults. Its design, while more conventional than the original Fortwo, retains a distinctive Smart aesthetic with rounded edges and a relatively high roofline. The interior is designed to maximize space efficiency, offering a surprisingly roomy cabin for its exterior dimensions. Key features include front and rear disc brakes, an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety, and a five-speed manual transmission. The Forfour’s trunk space is versatile, offering 268 liters (9.46 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up and expanding to 910 liters (32.14 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. The vehicle’s compact length of 3752 mm (147.72 in.) and width of 1684 mm (66.3 in.) make it exceptionally maneuverable in tight urban environments. The Forfour’s curb weight of 965 kg (2127.46 lbs.) contributes to its fuel efficiency and handling characteristics.

Technical Specifications

Despite its discontinuation after only two years, the Smart Forfour W454 1.1i remains a notable example of Smart’s attempt to expand its product range and cater to a wider audience. Its blend of practicality, fuel efficiency, and compact dimensions continues to appeal to enthusiasts and those seeking a unique urban driving experience.