Smart Roadster
A lightweight, mid-engined throwback to the classic British roadster with modern German engineering.
- Power
- 82 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 10.5 s
- Top speed
- 109 mph
- Est. value
- $5k–$12k
About the Smart Roadster
The Smart Roadster was designed to evoke the spirit of 1960s sports cars like the Lotus Elan, prioritising low weight and agility over raw power. Built on a stretched version of the Fortwo chassis, it features a rear-mounted 698cc turbocharged engine and a distinctive 'Tridion' safety cell. While the automated manual gearbox was often criticised for its slow shifts, the car's low centre of gravity and communicative steering made it a favourite among driving enthusiasts. Production ended prematurely in 2005 due to high warranty costs related to water ingress issues, making it a modern cult classic.
Smart Roadster specs
The Smart Roadster produces 82 bhp (61 kW) and 110 Nm (81 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 10.5 seconds and has a top speed of 109 mph (175 km/h).
| Make | Smart |
|---|---|
| Model | Roadster |
| Trim | 0.7 |
| Years | 2003–2005 |
| Type | Sports car |
| Body style | Roadster |
| Country | Germany |
| Production | About 43,091 built |
| Engine | 0.7-litre turbocharged inline-3 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 698 cc (0.7 litres) |
| Induction | Turbocharged |
| Power | 82 bhp (61 kW) at 5,250 rpm |
| Torque | 110 Nm (81 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 10.5 s |
| Top speed | 109 mph (175 km/h) |
| Transmission | 6-speed automated manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 790 kg (1,742 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 104 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Smart Roadster worth?
A typical Smart Roadster is estimated to be worth $5,000 – $12,000 (about £3,700 – £8,900).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Smart Roadster rarity in CarSpot
The Smart Roadster is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 14 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Smart Roadster fun facts
- The Roadster is exceptionally light, weighing less than 800kg, which allows it to be fuel-efficient while remaining engaging to drive.
- Despite being a German brand owned by Daimler, the Smart Roadster was actually assembled at the 'Smartville' plant in Hambach, France.
- Gordon Murray, designer of the McLaren F1, reportedly owned a Smart Roadster and praised its packaging and fun-to-drive nature.
