2008 smart fortwo convertible 1.0L

Overview

The 2008 smart fortwo convertible, officially marketed as the fortwo cabriolet, represents a significant milestone in the history of micro-mobility within the United States. Following years of success in European markets, the second-generation (W451) fortwo was officially introduced to the North American market in 2008. Engineered by Daimler AG under the smart brand, the vehicle was designed to address the growing demand for ultra-compact, fuel-efficient urban transportation. Its distinctive “tridion” safety cell—a high-strength steel frame—served as both a structural backbone and a signature design element, allowing for interchangeable body panels that defined the brand’s aesthetic.

The convertible variant offered a unique open-air experience in a package less than nine feet long. Powered by a Mitsubishi-sourced 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine, the fortwo was positioned as a niche vehicle for city dwellers, emphasizing ease of parking and maneuverability over traditional performance metrics. While its automated manual transmission became a frequent point of discussion among automotive critics, the fortwo’s engineering significance lay in its packaging efficiency and its role as a pioneer for modern city cars in a market historically dominated by much larger vehicles.

Vehicle Overview
Brand	smart
Model	fortwo convertible
Model Year	2008
Generation	W451
Trim	Passion
Body Style	2-door convertible
Vehicle Segment	Microcar
Vehicle Class	Two Seaters
Market	USA
Platform	W451
Assembly Plant	Hambach, France
Country of Origin	France
Production Start	2007
Production End	2014
VIN Identifier	WME
Base MSRP	$16,590
Destination Charge	$645
Total MSRP	$17,235
Powertrain
Powertrain Type	ICE
Engine Family	Mitsubishi 3B2
Engine Name	M132
Engine Code	3B21
Engine Configuration	Inline-3
Displacement	1.0 Liters
Bore x Stroke	72.0 mm x 81.8 mm
Compression Ratio	10.5:1
Aspiration	Naturally Aspirated
Fuel Delivery	Multi-point fuel injection
Valve Train	DOHC 4 valves per cylinder
Engine Block Material	Aluminum Alloy
Cylinder Head Material	Aluminum Alloy
Oil Capacity	3.0 L
Oil Specification / Viscosity	MB 229.5 / 5W-30
Horsepower	70 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque	68 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Redline	6500 rpm
Drivetrain	Rear-Wheel Drive
Transmission	Automatic (S5)
Final Drive Ratio	4.13
Axle Ratio	–
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type	Premium Gasoline
Recommended Octane	91 AKI
EPA City MPG	33
EPA Highway MPG	41
EPA Combined MPG	36
Fuel Economy (L/100 km)	6.5
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)	8.7
Estimated Driving Range	350 miles
Annual Fuel Cost	$1,350
CO₂ Emissions	245 g/mile
Greenhouse Gas Score	–
Smog Rating	–
Performance
0-30 mph	4.5 s
0-60 mph	12.8 s
0-100 mph	–
Quarter Mile	19.2 s
Top Speed	90 mph
Braking Distance (60-0 mph)	125 ft
Lateral Acceleration	0.78g
Power-to-Weight Ratio	25.7 lb/hp
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in)	106.1
Width (Without Mirrors) (in)	61.4
Width (With Mirrors) (in)	–
Height (in)	60.7
Wheelbase (in)	73.5
Front Track (in)	50.2
Rear Track (in)	54.7
Ground Clearance (in)	5.0
Curb Weight (lbs)	1808
GVWR (lbs)	2425
Towing Capacity (lbs)	0
Payload Capacity (lbs)	500
Passenger Volume (cu ft)	45
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft)	7.8
Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft)	12.0
Turning Circle	28.7 ft
Approach Angle	–
Departure Angle	–
Breakover Angle	–
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating	–
NHTSA Frontal Crash	–
NHTSA Side Crash	–
NHTSA Rollover	–
IIHS Award	–
Small Overlap Front	–
Moderate Overlap Front	–
Side Impact	–
Headlights Rating	–
Front Crash Prevention	–
Technology & Connectivity
Infotainment Display	–
Instrument Cluster	Analog
Apple CarPlay	No
Android Auto	No
Navigation System	Optional
Audio System	2-speaker AM/FM/CD
Speaker Count	2
Wireless Charging	No
Wi-Fi Hotspot	No
OTA Updates	No
Digital Key	No
Warranty & Ownership
Basic Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles
Corrosion Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles
Roadside Assistance	4 years / 50,000 miles
Complimentary Maintenance	No
Specs.Autos Exclusive Data
Engine Assembly Plant	Mitsubishi Motors, Japan
Transmission Supplier	Getrag
Gear Ratios	–
Differential Type	Open
Cooling System Capacity	6.0 L
Roof Load Capacity (lbs)	0
Safety Recall Count	–
Production Volume	–
Units Sold in USA	–

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

The 2008 smart fortwo convertible remains a polarizing figure in the used car market, prized primarily for its extreme ease of parking and unique aesthetic rather than its driving dynamics. Reliability is generally considered acceptable for the engine and chassis, though the automated manual transmission (AMT) is a frequent point of contention; it is known for slow, jerky shifts that require a learning curve for smooth operation. Prospective buyers should prioritize vehicles with documented service histories, specifically checking for clutch wear and the condition of the convertible top mechanism, which can be expensive to repair if neglected. While it offers excellent fuel economy and a “fun” factor for city driving, it is not recommended for long-distance highway commuting due to its short wheelbase and sensitivity to crosswinds. Today, it serves as an affordable, quirky city runabout for those who value footprint over utility.