Would you Drive a Smart if ...

[Frank Lee]

"Pininfarina was one of the first companies to install a wind tunnel (in 1972). A direct result of testing in this environment was the PF-CXR family- size car, which achieved a world record Cd figure of 0.161 and had a curious banana-shaped form: Pininfarina proved it could be practical by creating a version with air intakes, lights, and mirrors (though the Cd figure increased lo 0.23)."

[cfg83]

Frank -

Thanks, that's the one! I'll bet that Russian car styling website has a picture of it.

CarloSW2

[cfg83]

Frank -

Got it!

1978 Pininfarina Studio CNR (Pininfarina)

Compasso d’Oro Award 1979 for this Ideal Aerodynamic Shape, outcome of a theoretical experimental research project promoted by the National Research Italian Council. The outstanding drag coefficient (CD=0,20) allowed to achieve a substantial reduction in fuel consumption.

CarloSW2

.

[Frank Lee]

Good work!

[basslover911]

Originally Posted by cfg83

trikkonceptz -

I think the (failed) Smart Roadster would make a better platform for your idea because the safety cell is "already low" by design :

Smart Roadster - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia


CarloSW2

.

So, why "failed"?

[cfg83]

basslover911 -

Originally Posted by basslover911

So, why "failed"?

From the same wiki :

The Smart Roadster is a two-door microcar first introduced in 2003 by Smart GmbH. Sales of the Roadster and Roadster Coupé were below expectations, resulting in a halt of production of both models in November 2005 after 43,091 Roadsters were made. The last one now resides in the Mercedes-Benz Museum.

But when I read the Wiki more closely, it seems that someone's still making their own versions in limited production.

Project Kimber and the AC Ace Roadster

Project Kimber bought the tooling for the Roadster for approximately £11M and was supposedly to restart production of the car in 2007 in South Wales. The reborn Smart was to have worn an AC Ace badge under the famous AC marque.

...

However, if it ever appears, it is set to be available as a Roadster and Coupé. The newcomer is expected to have a fresh Mitsubishi power-plant and gearbox, plus a distinct original style created by Keith Helfet, who also worked on the Jaguar F-Type concept car. Production was due to start in 2007, but has not as of yet. The maker hoped to build 8,000 examples of the AC Ace every year.

This also makes me want to mention the Smart Forfour :

Smart Forfour - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia


I really wish this version had succeeded, because of it's aesthetics and more "general-purpose" practicality.

CarloSW2

[i_am_socket]

I'd drive a smart if it had better base milage, enough room to put the groceries, and was cheaper.

[anomoly40]

I'd drive a Smart if they come with the Suzuki GSX-R engine as an option.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cV4HdsDZX6c

And the Jetcar 2.5 video made me want to get out some glow sticks.

[trikkonceptz]

How can you drive with the engine as your passenger? I guess it would be great for keeping your lunch warm. The noise and fumes would probably drive anyone insane.

Not to say it is not cool .. LOL

[jimp]

I've driven an 08 smartfortwo, not a bad car, but my mazda 3 is MUCH more fun!!!