 1,965 One Owner / Driver Miles!
2008 Smart Passion fortwo
ANOTHER CLASSIC CARS LTD. - NO RESERVE AUCTION!!
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2008 SMART CAR FOR-TWO CABRIOLET
DESIRABLE COLOR / 41+ MPG
VIRTUALLY NEW with 2,630 ONE OWNER MILES!!
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NOTE: Our listings sometimes get rather lengthy (OK, VERY lengthy). However, we continually hear from our out of state / out of country buyers that they prefer the level of detail that we provide and it is the extensive photos / description that enables them to make a confident, long distance buying decision. However, if you are not prepared to read multiple pages of description, we recommend that you review the "Specifications" on the car along with viewing the photos 100~ photos. Also, if you'd prefer to discuss the car over the telephone, please give us a call (925-846-1451) and we'll be glad to answer any questions that you have.
Thanks,
Classic Cars Ltd.
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SMART CAR - HISTORY
Americans' new found love affair will never be the same now that the Smart for-two has arrived! Encouraged by the success of the Mini, Mercedes Benz is hoping to encourage forward-thinking urbanites to try its diminutive two-seater. With a little help from the United Auto Group, which has signed an exclusive deal to distribute the car, the smart for-two hit U.S. shores in January 2008. It is offered as a coupe and the desirable Cabriolet.
What is Smart?
The smart concept began life in the early '90s as a partnership between Mercedes-Benz and the Swiss watch manufacturer, Swatch. They had a vision to create a small, funky city car for the 21st century, but the relationship broke down and Mercedes was left to complete the project. The first Smart arrived in Europe in 1998, and was subsequently re-designed and then re-launched to be much improved over the original version.
The original plan was for smart to develop a comprehensive range. The original two-seater city-coupe was followed by a Roadster and a Roadster-Coupe and then by a larger four-seater called the forfour. The roadster was cute but expensive, while the forfour, developed with Mitsubishi, was dull and overpriced. Neither sold well and Smart continued to suffer heavy losses.
To the slaughterhouse went the roadster and for-four, and earlier this year, Daimler Chrysler was openly considering either shutting smart or selling it. Only the enthusiasm of Daimler Chrysler CEO Dieter Zetsche saved it, and now Smart has a new business model built around a single model, the Mercedes designed / engineered for-two.
The new smart for-two is larger than the original. In fact, it is 7.6 inches longer than before and almost 2 inches wider, with a roughly 2-inch-longer wheelbase. This increase was required to provide additional luggage capacity and to meet pedestrian safety requirements. But despite this, the for-two is still small, easy to park and great fun to drive. At 106 inches long, it's considerably shorter than the new Mini.
Clever packaging makes the most of the space. Just one engine will be offered in the U.S. - a 1.0-liter, three-cylinder developing 71 horsepower and 68 pound-feet of torque - and it's mounted under the trunk floor, just in front of the rear axle. The steeply raked rear hatch provides a surprisingly spacious load bay. There are 7.8 cubic feet of cargo space, which gives it an edge over the Mini. Occupant space is also generous. The passenger seat is positioned slightly behind the driver seat to optimize shoulder room, and this 6-foot-4-inch scribe had no trouble getting comfortable.
Smart would like you to think that its new styling has 'grown up'. The exterior shape, while still instantly recognizable, is more angular and masculine than before. Inside, the cutesy curves of the original have been replaced by a blocky center console that's disappointingly conventional. At least the periscope-like rev counter and clock - trademark smart features - have been retained.
The Tridion safety cell helps define the smart's styling. (It's the two-tone element you can see in photographs.) This is a deliberate attempt to reassure customers that such a small car can be safe. Front and side airbags are standard, while the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) is designed to help drivers avoid an accident in the first place.
Fixing the problems
The old smart was criticized for its slow steering and ponderous, jerky gear change. Both elements have been updated for the new car. The semiautomatic shifts are said to be smoother and faster than before. A fully automatic mode will also be available, and Smart is redesigning the gear selector to make it more intuitive for American customers. The steering is 10 percent more direct than the old car, according to Smart.
The longer wheelbase and wider track should also help improve both the Smart's handling and the harsher ride tendencies in the earlier cars. With 71 hp on offer, it should prove capable of keeping up with the cut and thrust of city traffic, and with a governed (limited) top speed of 90 mph, it's capable of traveling on any USA thoroughfare / highway with no problem. .
The U.S. "Pitch"
In America, the for-two will be distributed by the United Auto Group, a U.S. dealer group owned by racing legend Roger Penske. There will be several cars ranging form the base model Pulse which will have steel rims and no air-conditioning. The more up-market Passion will add air conditioning, alloys and a transparent polycarbonate roof. Topping the range will be the convertible (Cabriolet) which boasts an electrically folding soft top that can be opened or closed at any speed.
"When people commute they're often alone, so why would they want to take on the cost of a four-seater vehicle?" asks Roger Penske. "The Smart will achieve over 40 mpg at a time when fuel costs are higher than I can ever remember. This is a metro car for a high-density market. The smart will sell around the ownership experience, its value and the Mercedes name plate."
Penske is remaining tight-lipped about his volume aspirations. "In Canada, smart sold 4,000 vehicles in its first year," he continues. "The U.S. market is 10 times bigger, but you cannot apply a simple multiple. We need to maintain a profit for the dealer and a profit for the OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Smart initially launched with around 50 dealers. These will be a mix of primarily existing Mercedes and United Auto Group dealers, concentrated in high-density urban areas.
The responsibility of marketing the new car falls to David C. Schembri. "This is the only car in the non-luxury segment that has both rational and emotional appeal," he says. "Its appeal is not defined by age and income. We've been approached by everybody from college students to some of the most high-profile people in the United States." Neither Penske nor Shembri regard the Mini as a natural competitor. "A typical Mini will be $6,000-$7,000 more expensive," says Penske, "and the ownership costs are higher."
The marketing campaign will be led by a road show, which will take the Smart to urban centers. "The road show will allow people to see the cars, sit in the cars and drive the cars," says Shembri. "It's the best way to understand Smart. I call it 'Discovery marketing'."
More Mature Than Before
Smart's President, Ulrich Walker, reckons that his business model is not dependent on U.S. success, but there can be no doubting that the new car has been developed with the world's largest market in mind. The new for-two is larger and more mature than before, and Smart will be hoping that it captures the imagination of environmentally friendly Metrosexuals who fancy something different. The initial response has been huge and it appears as if the Smart car is well on its way to being a major success.
SPECIFICATIONS - SMART CABRIOLET for-two
Engine/ Drivetrain Cabriolet for-two
1.0 L, 71 HP, 3 cylinder engine
STD
5 speed automated manual transmission
STD
Paddle shifters
STD
Wheels
9-spoke alloy wheels (15"); front tires: 155/60 R15; rear tires 175/55 R15
STD
Tire pressure monitoring system
STD
Exterior
Fully automatic convertible top with glass rear window
N/A
Projector beam halogen headlights
STD
Side indicators in yellow
STD
Exterior mirror trim in Tridion color
STD
Interior
Molded Storage Area in Dash and Door Nets
STD
3-spoke leather sports steering wheel with steering wheel shift paddles (incl. leather gear knob)
STD
Basic seat with weight detection and seat belt recognition
STD
Flat folding passenger seat with backrest adjustment
STD
Storage areas beside the steering wheel and in both doors
STD
Coin holder
STD
Dome light
STD
Mirror in passenger sun visor
STD
Storage
Lockable glove compartment
STD
Audio
Smart premium radio (AM/FM, mp3-compatible 6 disc CD changer; incl. 2 speakers, Aux input jack)
STD
Smart sound system (2 tweeters, 2 mid range, subwoofer)
STD
Safety
Hydraulic dual-circuit brake system
STD
Tire repair kit
STD
Top Tether for child restraint system
STD
Panic button on key
STD
ESP® - Electronic Stability Program with hill start assist
STD
Anti-lock braking system (abs) with electronic brake force distribution
STD
Full-size driver and passenger airbags
STD
Head/Thorax-Side Airbags
STD
Integral safety seats
STD
Seat belts with belt tensioner and belt-force limiter
STD
Drive lock - auto-activation of the central locking when driving
STD
Functional/electrical equipment
12-volt socket with cover
STD
Air conditioning with automatic temperature control (incl. dust, pollen filter)
STD
Power windows with one-touch lowering function
STD
Electronic and heated side mirrors
STD
Central locking system with remote control
STD
Instrument cluster with multifunctional display (fuel-level indicator, coolant-level indicator, residual fuel indicator, service interval indicator, trip mileage indicator, clock, loose gas cap indicator)
STD
Outside temperature indicator
STD
Indicators with lane changer function
STD
Front windshield wiper with speed-dependent interval wiping and wiper-/wash function
STD
Electric rear window defroster
STD
Electric tailgate release
STD
Locking gas cap
STD
12-volt socket, with cover
STD
THIS PARTICULAR 2008 SMART FOR-TWO PASSION
What about this particular SMART car? Well, its' virtually a brand new car that we just had to own! After years of traveling to Europe and seeing the SMART cars (and other wonderful cars that we in USA can't get our hands on), we were very excited to learn that the car was on its way to our shores.
We heard about this particular car through one of our many contacts and arranged to purchase it from the young physician whose name had been on the waiting list for over 1 year. He and his wife learned of her pregnancy shortly before the car arrived at Beverly Hills Mercedes / SMART car and the need for a larger car necessitated the sale of the Cabriolet before they even took delivery.
So, with short notice we agreed to purchase the car directly from the good Dr. flew from San Francisco to Los Angeles and met at the Beverly Hills Mercedes / SMART dealership. The doctor purchased the car, completed the paperwork and we proceeded to the bank in our new Smart car to finalize the financial arrangements and take possession of the car. It had 8 miles when we got in the car and we have been the only one to drive the car with the exception of a few close friends that wanted to experience what it was like to drive a SMART car (with us). The SMART car dealer will not allow "transfer" of your position in line and you must either purchase the car or give forfeit the car.
Before leaving the LA area we enjoyed lunch with a good friend in Beverly Hills and it was on our way up Coast Highway 1 in our brand spanking new SMART for-two Cabriolet. We decided to take a very leisurely trip (my wife was gone, so no rush to return to the Bay area!) up highway one so that we could vary the speed I accordance with the SMART break-in procedure, stop I some Coastal towns along the way and, for a change, take a leisurely drive in scenic, sunny California.
Well, the trip was absolutely incredible. The SMART car was comfortable, performed very well under all conditions and was a pleasure drive on the highway, the twisty roads on Highway 1 and with efficient air conditioning and a CD player, even through traffic in LA! The only problem that we had was when we stopped. We were absolutely barraged with questions about the SMART car from all age groups and a wide range of people. Of course, there were those that had seen the car in Europe but were unaware that the car was now available in the USA. Others had never seen the convertible version (even in Europe) and we had multiple requests to sit in the car and even a few that wanted a ride! Everyone was enamored by the SMART car and impressed with the size of the interior, the quality of the car and, of course, it mileage and highway capabilities.
We made our way back to the San Francisco bay area stopping in Big Sur, Carmel A (a few of our favorite stops) drawing attention everywhere we went. When we arrived home I surprised my wife with the SMART car and we have enjoyed the car in our little town ever since. However, it is time to pass the car onto another "Keeper." We (as always) have entirely too many personal cars and have recently added a few vintage cars to our collection and simply do not have time to utilize a newer car like the SMART car. Between our work schedule, full size luxury cars, sports and vintage cars we just have too many cars and, unfortunately, something has got to go!
2008 SMART CAR - CONDITION
Frankly, it is simple to describe the condition of this SMART car.Incredible! The car has traveled just over 2,500 miles, has been stored in a climate controlled facility and hardly ever left unattended, or in the sun. The SMART is virtually as new and in the same condition as when we picked it up in Southern California.
The SMART has never been smoked in, had a car seat (or kids), no fast food "exposure" and has never been driven in the rain. With 10+ cars to drive at any time, the miles that we have accumulated on the SMART car (with the exception of our initial journey of 500 miles from LA) has been around town and with the occasional trip into San Francisco for dinner where the car was parked in an inside, private garage. It is truly a beautiful, "No Excuses" example.
Details of this SMART car include:
- Finished in "Rally Red" (Optional Metallic color)
- Tridon Safety Cell is contrasting black color
- Optional Power Steering
- Includes fitted luggage (just like a Ferrari) purchased separately
- Car Cover
- ALL of the original, delivery books ad documents including:
- Original "Operator's Manual"
- SMART Roadside Assistance Program manual
- Radio Operation Instruction Manual
- SMART - Consumer Information Brochure
- Schedule Maintenance Guide
- SMART Warranty Brochure
- Original "Folder" for all documents
- Factory extra key / keys
- Factory provided SMART key chain
- Original Window Sticker
IMPORTANT NOTE: We are able to offer a wide range of warranties on the SMART car.
The smart car still carries the original "Beverly Hills" smart car sticker on the windshield and includes the originally issued smat car license plate placard / license plate holder. Of course, the car has a totally clean, lien-free California title and is ready for delivery.
MISCELLANEOUS FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
1. Has it received a safety / light inspection? Yes, in accordance with California requirements, the car has been safety inspected by an independent professional organization.
2. What were the results of the independent inspection? The car was found to be very solid and had no issues with safety related items (brakes, electrical, steering, suspension, tires, etc.).
3. What is the total mileage on the Smart car? At this time, the odometer reads 1,975. We use the Smart car as our local commuter (5 miles to work) so we may put another few hundred miles on the car prior to the end of the auction.
4. What are the cars needs (if any) at this time? The vehicle is in beautiful condition and, as we have indicated, runs and drives exceptionally well. The car has been very well cared and it has NO needs.
5. Can we have the vehicle inspected? Yes, we encourage inspections by individuals and professional inspection organizations. All we ask is that you call us at 925-846-1451 to arrange a convenient time.
6. Can you provide some "ballpark" costs of shipping to say New York? Yes, on a fully insured, enclosed carrier for as low as about $1,000.00 to the East Coast. The cost to Los Angeles would be in the area of $350.00. PLEASE check with us as these are just estimates, not firm shipping costs, and rates are changing regularly due to fuel costs and other factors.
PURCHASING A COLLECTOR VEHICLE - THINGS TO CONSIDER
As always, we recommend that you carefully review the seller's background of any collector car being sold over the Internet. We believe that it is important to ask yourself a number of questions including, but not limited to:
- How long have they been in business?
- How much experience do they have with collector cars?
- How many positive collector car vehicle sales have completed (positive EBay feedback)?
- How detailed/complete is the description of the vehicle?
- Do the photos show details of the interior, exterior, top, chrome, etc. or are they simply "Glamour Shots" taken from a distance?
- Does the seller have a surety bond to protect the financial transaction?
- What about insurance, licensing by the state, and a local business license?
- Does the seller (if a business) have any DMV (Motor Vehicle) complaints and/or other history of legal action, grievances?
- Do they enjoy a favorable local and national/international reputation?
- Can the seller assist with funding sources, transport and out of state/country sales?
ABOUT CLASSIC CARS LTD.
* Classic Cars Ltd. has been in the same, small, California town for close to 15 years. We operate a small, indoor showroom, and specialize in the sale, consignment, and purchase of sports, high performance and specialty vehicles of all types. We have a particular interest in sports cars and unique vehicles.
* The majority of our vehicles come from local, private owners and collectors, and many were sold new in California. We appreciate that rust free cars, with excellent documentation and history are especially attractive to our buyers both locally, and around the country. As a result, we do not purchase our collectible cars from "distressed" sales, such as wholesale auctions, salvage sales, or lien sales. We do not sell vehicles with salvage titles, or those that have a history of significant accident damage or repair.
* We are fully insured, bonded, and licensed for collector car sales all over the United States/World.
* We have operated a "brick & mortar" business in the same small town for close to 15 years
* We are fully insured and licensed for collector car sales
* Classic Cars Ltd. carries a $50,000 Surety bond to cover financial transactions
* We have operated a "brick & mortar" business in the same small town for close to 15 years
* We enjoy excellent relationships with a number of transport companies and, as a result, can often times obtain preferred pricing for vehicle shipping. Please give us a call and we will be glad to refer you to suitable transport companies. Needless to say, we would recommend a quality, enclosed transporter that is experience with moving high quality, collectible cars.
* We frequently sell vehicles to out of state buyers / out of country buyers, and are proud of our 100% positive eBay feedback ratings on over 550 transactions. Please review our eBay feedback for specific comments on our service to our customers.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
* We encourage telephone calls to discuss in greater details the condition/specifics of this beautiful and unique smart car. It is difficult to fully describe how nice an example this is, but we welcome "walk around" telephone discussions in order to answer any questions that you may have.
* We will be glad to discuss a sale of the car prior to the end of the listing on eBay, and ask that interested parties call us at 925-846-1451 for additional information/specifics.
* Please review our feedback on eBay (user name never22many) for our history of successful sales to out of state/country buyers. Our feedback consists of a total of over 500 positive transactions on eBay.
* As with any collectible vehicle of this vintage we are unable to provide a warranty or guarantee of condition. However, we make every effort to accurately represent our vehicles, and highlight both positive items as well as areas that require attention. We ask that prospective buyers consider our eBay history/feedback, standing in the community, length of time in business, and other factors when purchasing a collectible vehicle from Classic Cars Ltd.
For California buyers, the smart car registration has no penalties and only the future registration, etc. fees will need to be paid.
Of course, in addition to the purchase price, California buyers will be subject to sales tax, documentation fee, and DMV transfer fees. Out of state buyers will be responsible for the purchase price of the vehicle with any taxes/fess paid in their respective state
Thank you,
Classic Cars Ltd.
925-846-1451
Specifications:
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| Body Type / Style: | Convertible |
| Exterior Color: | Metallic Red |
| Interior Color: | Black / Gray |
| Engine: | 3 Cylinder |
| Transmission: | N/A |
| Mileage: | 2630 |
| Drive: | Rear |
| Doors: | 2 |
Equipment:
| 5-Speed Transmission AM/FM/CD Player Air Conditioning Airbag Dual Side Mirrors Excellent Documentation Factory Air Conditioning Factory Bucket Seats Factory Center Console Factory Console / Automatic
| | | Factory Console / Automatic Front Disc Brakes Front Rubber Mats Large Power Sunroof Original Warranty Booklet Power Steering Power Windows Premium Wheels Rear Spoiler Roll Bar
|
 Desirable (Optional) Metallic Red
 Convertible!!
 Like Brand New
 NO Wear on Top
 Designed / Built by Mercedes Benz
 Absolutley Like NEW
 Sunroof Position
 Flexibility of Large (or small) Sunroof
 Very Large "Sunroof"
 Top Back / Side Supports in Place
 Convertible w/ Upper Sides
 Storage for Convertible "Rails"
 One On / One Off
 Storage for Convertible Supports / Rails
 Closed Storage
 Top Completely Down (No Supports)
 Full Power Top
 Top Can Be Raised at ANY Speed
 Fun in the Sun
 Great Safety Ratings, too.
 Clear California Title / Registration
 Black "Tridon Cell"
 Alloy Wheels
 Excellent Value!
 Garaged in our Showroom Since New
 Left Front Fender
 No Damage to Front Spoiler
 Right Front End
 Right Front Fender
 Right Door
 Right Rear
 Rear End
 Left Rear Side
 Sriver's Side Door
 Driver's Side Front to Rear
 Passenger Side Front to Rear
 Right Side Front to Rear
 Left Side Front to Rear
 Convertible Top in Down Position
 Right Side - Top Down
 Right Headlight - Close
 Left Headlight - Close
 SMART!
 Rear Cooling Vent
 Cool!
 Right Tail Light Close
 Added MBZ Logo (Impress you Friends)!
 "Upgraded" Chrome Exhaust
 Nice Detail
 Desitrable "Passion"...The Best!

 Delivered to Smart Beverly Hills, CA 90211
 Like New Wheels
 #2
 Not a Scratch
 Like New
 Perfect Interior
 Practical Interior for Convertible Use
 Factory Climate Controlled A/C
 Paddle Shift on Steering Wheel
 Really Nice
 Low, Low Miles
 Truly Like a New One
 Black Tridon Cell
 Right Side
 Excellent Safety Ratings
 Dash Right to left
 Dash Left to Right
 VIN / ID Plate
 Great Sound System
 Left Door Panel
 Right Door Panel
 Aftermarket GPS
 "Mounted" in Cup Holder (Removable)
 Rear Trunk
 Car Cover Included
 Fromnt Hood Panel Comes Off for Access
 Hood Off & on "Holder"
 ALL Delivery Documents
 SAVE $$$$ Over Dealer New Car Prices
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