The Smart Fortwo Cabrio (A450) 0.8d, produced between 1999 and 2007, represents the initial foray into the microcar segment by Smart, a brand then owned by Daimler-Benz. This diminutive two-seater convertible was primarily aimed at the European urban market, offering a solution to congested city streets and parking challenges. While never officially sold in the United States during its original production run, the Fortwo gained notoriety for its unique size and fuel efficiency. The 0.8d variant, powered by a small-displacement diesel engine, was a popular choice for its economy and practicality.
Smart Fortwo Cabrio (A450) 0.8d: A City Car Pioneer
The A450 generation Fortwo Cabrio was a significant departure from conventional automotive design. Its compact dimensions and rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout were intended to maximize interior space and maneuverability within tight urban environments. The Cabrio version added an element of open-air enjoyment, appealing to drivers seeking a fun and distinctive vehicle. The 0.8d model specifically targeted buyers prioritizing fuel economy, making it a cost-effective option for daily commuting.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Smart Fortwo Cabrio 0.8d is a 799cc inline three-cylinder diesel engine, designated OM 660.940. This engine, despite its small size, is turbocharged and utilizes a diesel commonrail fuel injection system to produce 41 horsepower at 4200 rpm and 100 Nm (73.76 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1800 rpm. The power-to-liter ratio is a respectable 51.3 hp/l. While not designed for rapid acceleration, the engine provides sufficient power for city driving. Performance figures include a 0-60 mph time of approximately 18.8 seconds and a top speed of 135 km/h (83.89 mph). The engine’s rear-mounted, transverse configuration contributes to the car’s unique handling characteristics. The six-speed automatic transmission provides smooth gear changes, enhancing the driving experience. The weight-to-power ratio is 19.6 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 8.1 kg/Nm.
Design & Features
The Smart Fortwo Cabrio A450 is instantly recognizable by its extremely short length of 2500 mm (98.43 in) and narrow width of 1515 mm (59.65 in). The two-door Cabrio body style features a retractable soft top, allowing for open-air driving. The vehicle seats two occupants comfortably, prioritizing functionality over luxury. Safety features for the era included Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The interior is minimalist, focusing on essential controls and maximizing space. The rear-engine layout necessitates a small front trunk and limited rear storage. The car’s design was a deliberate attempt to break away from traditional automotive aesthetics, embracing a playful and unconventional appearance. The overall height of the vehicle is 1549 mm (60.98 in), and the wheelbase measures 1812 mm (71.34 in). The kerb weight is 805 kg (1774.72 lbs), with a maximum permissible weight of 990 kg (2182.58 lbs) and a maximum load capacity of 185 kg (407.86 lbs).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Smart |
| Model | Fortwo |
| Generation | Fortwo Cabrio (A450) |
| Type (Engine) | 0.8d (41 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1999 |
| End of production | 2007 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.6 l/100 km (65.3 US mpg, 78.5 UK mpg, 27.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.8 l/100 km (61.9 US mpg, 74.3 UK mpg, 26.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 19.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 19.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 18.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 135 km/h (83.89 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 19.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 41 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Torque | 100 Nm @ 1800 rpm (73.76 lb.-ft. @ 1800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Rear, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 660.940 |
| Engine displacement | 799 cm3 (48.76 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 65.5 mm (2.58 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 79 mm (3.11 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 2.7 l (2.85 US qt | 2.38 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 805 kg (1774.72 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 990 kg (2182.58 lbs.) |
| Max load | 185 kg (407.86 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 33 l (8.72 US gal | 7.26 UK gal) |
| Length | 2500 mm (98.43 in.) |
| Width | 1515 mm (59.65 in.) |
| Height | 1549 mm (60.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 1812 mm (71.34 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 145/65 R15; 175/55 R15 |
The Smart Fortwo Cabrio A450 0.8d, while not a performance vehicle, carved a niche for itself as a uniquely practical and fuel-efficient city car. Its innovative design and compact size continue to make it a recognizable and somewhat iconic vehicle, particularly in Europe, where it remains a symbol of urban mobility.
