2010-2015 smart fortwo cabriolet 1.0L

Overview

The smart fortwo cabriolet, produced between 2010 and 2015, represents the second generation (W451) of the iconic microcar designed for dense urban environments. Developed under the Daimler AG umbrella, the fortwo was engineered with a unique “tridion” safety cell, a high-strength steel frame that allowed the vehicle to maintain structural integrity despite its diminutive footprint. The cabriolet variant offered a retractable power-folding soft top, which could be operated at any speed, providing an open-air experience that distinguished it from the standard coupe.

Marketed in the United States as a solution to urban congestion and parking challenges, the fortwo cabriolet utilized a rear-mounted, 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine paired with a five-speed automated manual transmission. Its design philosophy prioritized maneuverability and ease of parking over traditional highway performance. While its unconventional transmission and compact dimensions polarized the American market, the vehicle gained a cult following among city dwellers and those seeking a highly efficient, distinctively styled commuter vehicle. Its legacy remains as a bold experiment in micro-mobility and minimalist automotive engineering.

Vehicle Overview
Brand	smart
Model	fortwo cabriolet
Model Year	2010-2015
Generation	W451
Trim	Pure, Passion
Body Style	2-Door Convertible
Vehicle Segment	City Car
Vehicle Class	Two Seaters
Market	USA
Platform	smart W451
Assembly Plant	Hambach, France
Country of Origin	France
Production Start	2007
Production End	2015
VIN Identifier	WME
Base MSRP	$17,000
Destination Charge	$750
Total MSRP	–
Powertrain
Powertrain Type	Internal Combustion Engine
Engine Family	Mitsubishi 3B2
Engine Name	M132
Engine Code	–
Engine Configuration	Inline-3
Displacement	1.0 Liters
Bore x Stroke	72.0 mm x 81.8 mm
Compression Ratio	11.4:1
Aspiration	Naturally Aspirated
Fuel Delivery	Multi-point injection
Valve Train	DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Engine Block Material	Aluminum Alloy
Cylinder Head Material	Aluminum Alloy
Oil Capacity	3.0 Liters
Oil Specification / Viscosity	5W-30
Horsepower	70 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque	68 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Redline	6500 rpm
Drivetrain	Rear-Wheel Drive
Transmission	Automatic (AM5)
Final Drive Ratio	4.13
Axle Ratio	–
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type	Premium Gasoline
Recommended Octane	91
EPA City MPG	34
EPA Highway MPG	39
EPA Combined MPG	36
Fuel Economy (L/100 km)	6.5
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)	8.7
Estimated Driving Range	320 miles
Annual Fuel Cost	$1,300
CO₂ Emissions	245 g/mile
Greenhouse Gas Score	7
Smog Rating	6
Performance
0-30 mph	4.5s
0-60 mph	12.8s
0-100 mph	–
Quarter Mile	19.2s
Top Speed	90 mph
Braking Distance (60-0 mph)	125 ft
Lateral Acceleration	0.78g
Power-to-Weight Ratio	26.5 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)	50.4
Rear Track (in)	54.7
Ground Clearance (in)	5.0
Curb Weight (lbs)	1852
GVWR (lbs)	2425
Towing Capacity (lbs)	0
Payload Capacity (lbs)	573
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	4/5
IIHS Award	–
Small Overlap Front	–
Moderate Overlap Front	Good
Side Impact	Good
Headlights Rating	–
Front Crash Prevention	–
Technology & Connectivity
Infotainment Display	Optional Touchscreen
Instrument Cluster	Analog
Apple CarPlay	No
Android Auto	No
Navigation System	Optional
Audio System	2-Speaker
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, Japan
Transmission Supplier	Getrag
Gear Ratios	–
Differential Type	Open
Cooling System Capacity	–
Roof Load Capacity (lbs)	0
Safety Recall Count	–
Production Volume	–
Units Sold in USA	–

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

The 2010-2015 smart fortwo cabriolet is a niche vehicle that excels in urban environments due to its exceptional maneuverability and ease of parking, though it is generally considered unsuitable for long-distance highway commuting. Reliability is generally decent regarding the engine, but the automated manual transmission is notorious for its slow, jerky gear changes, which can be a point of frustration for new drivers. Prospective buyers should prioritize vehicles with documented service histories, specifically checking for clutch wear and electrical gremlins in the soft-top mechanism. While it offers a unique open-air experience at an accessible price point in the used market, owners should be prepared for higher-than-average maintenance costs associated with European parts and specialized service requirements.