Vehicle model
Smart Fortwo
The Fortwo is Smart's emblematic and founding model: a two-seat microcity car under three meters long, designed for the city. Launched in 1998 (first named City-Coupe), it went through three main generations (1998, 2007 and 2014), in coupe and convertible versions. Its key strength remains a minimal footprint allowing it to park where no other car can fit. It notably carried the brand in North America from 2008 to 2019, where its unique silhouette left a mark despite limited sales. Fully electric versions (Electric Drive, then EQ Fortwo) accompanied its career. Production ceased around 2024. Tire/wheel note: the Fortwo has a staggered setup (rear wheels wider than the front) because of its rear engine, with wheels of 15 to 17 inches; in Quebec, winter tires in good dimensions noticeably improve its traction.
History
History of the Smart Fortwo
The Fortwo is Smart's emblematic and founding model: a two-seat microcity car under three meters long, designed for the city. Launched in 1998 (first named City-Coupe), it went through three main generations (1998, 2007 and 2014), in coupe and convertible versions. Its key strength remains a minimal footprint allowing it to park where no other car can fit. It notably carried the brand in North America from 2008 to 2019, where its unique silhouette left a mark despite limited sales. Fully electric versions (Electric Drive, then EQ Fortwo) accompanied its career. Production ceased around 2024. Tire/wheel note: the Fortwo has a staggered setup (rear wheels wider than the front) because of its rear engine, with wheels of 15 to 17 inches; in Quebec, winter tires in good dimensions noticeably improve its traction.
Technology
Technologies, engines and platforms
Rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive architecture, with a steel Tridion safety cell. Small three-cylinder gasoline engines (naturally aspirated or turbocharged), an automated then dual-clutch gearbox depending on the generation, plus diesel and electric versions (Electric Drive / EQ Fortwo). The third generation shared its base with the Renault Twingo III.
Tires and wheels
Tire and wheel compatibility
Particularité notable de la Fortwo : ses roues arrière sont plus larges que les avant (montage étagé), à cause du moteur arrière. Les diamètres de jantes vont surtout de 15 à 17 pouces, avec des pneus étroits à l'avant. L'entraxe a varié selon les générations (notamment 3 trous, puis 4x100 sur les versions plus récentes); il faut donc vérifier l'année exacte. Les modèles électriques actuels (#1, #3), de type petit multisegment, montent plutôt du 18 à 20 pouces. Au Québec, des pneus d'hiver dédiés sont essentiels : sur une voiture aussi courte et légère, ils améliorent nettement la motricité et la stabilité sur neige et glace.
Other models