The Smart Fortwo Coupe (C450) 0.7 i, produced between 1999 and 2006, represents the initial foray into the microcar segment by the then-new Smart automobile brand. A joint venture between Mercedes-Benz and Swatch, Smart aimed to revolutionize urban transportation with a vehicle designed for maximum space efficiency and maneuverability. The Fortwo, as its name suggests, is a two-seater coupe intended primarily for city driving, offering a unique solution to parking and congestion challenges. While not officially sold in the United States during its initial production run, the Fortwo gained significant attention for its innovative design and became a popular choice in European markets.
Smart Fortwo Coupe (C450): A Pioneering Microcar
The C450 generation Fortwo was the first iteration of the model, establishing the core principles that would define the Smart brand for years to come. Its diminutive size, coupled with a relatively efficient engine, positioned it as an alternative to larger, more conventional city cars. The Fortwo’s design prioritized functionality and ease of use, making it particularly appealing to drivers navigating densely populated urban environments. The vehicle’s unique proportions and distinctive styling quickly made it recognizable, and it became a symbol of modern, minimalist transportation.
Engine & Performance
The 1999-2006 Smart Fortwo Coupe (C450) 0.7 i is powered by a 698 cc (42.59 cubic inches) inline-three cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, designated M 160.920, produces 61 horsepower at 5250 rpm and 95 Nm (70.07 lb-ft) of torque at 2000 rpm. While not designed for outright speed, the engine provides adequate power for urban driving conditions. The power-to-weight ratio is 13.2 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 8.5 kg/Nm. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 15.5 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 14.7 seconds. The Fortwo has a maximum speed of 135 km/h (83.89 mph). Fuel economy is a key strength, with combined fuel consumption rated at 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l). The engine features multi-port manifold fuel injection and an overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain. The engine is transversely mounted at the rear of the vehicle, driving the rear wheels.
Design & Features
The Smart Fortwo Coupe (C450) is a three-door coupe with seating for two passengers. Its compact dimensions – a length of 2500 mm (98.43 in), a width of 1515 mm (59.65 in), and a height of 1549 mm (60.98 in) – are central to its appeal. The wheelbase measures 1812 mm (71.34 in). The vehicle’s body structure incorporates a high-strength steel safety cell, designed to protect occupants in the event of a collision. Standard safety features for the era included Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The interior is designed to maximize space efficiency, with a focus on practicality and ease of use. The Fortwo’s small size makes it exceptionally easy to park and maneuver in tight urban spaces. 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). The fuel tank capacity is 33 liters (8.72 US gal, 7.26 UK gal).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Smart |
| Model | Fortwo |
| Generation | Fortwo Coupe (C450) |
| Type (Engine) | 0.7 i (61 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1999 |
| End of production | 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg, 47.1 UK mpg, 16.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4 l/100 km (58.8 US mpg, 70.6 UK mpg, 25 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l) |
| 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 | 135 km/h (83.89 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 61 Hp @ 5250 rpm |
| Torque | 95 Nm @ 2000 rpm (70.07 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Rear, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M 160.920 |
| Engine displacement | 698 cm3 (42.59 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 66.5 mm (2.62 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 67 mm (2.64 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.1 l (3.28 US qt | 2.73 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 4.2 l (4.44 US qt | 3.7 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 Coupe (C450) 0.7 i, despite its limited performance figures, remains a significant vehicle in automotive history. It demonstrated the viability of the microcar concept and paved the way for future generations of Smart vehicles. Its focus on urban mobility and efficient design continues to resonate with drivers seeking a practical and environmentally conscious transportation solution.
