SMART (MCC) FORTWO COUPE Buying Guide & Reliability (2001-2012)

The SMART (MCC) FORTWO COUPE is a compact city car that has been a popular choice among urban drivers since its introduction in 2001. With a total of 382 registered vehicles, this model has made a significant impact in the UK automotive market, particularly for those seeking a small, efficient...

Last updated September 07, 2025 1998 words Based on real UK vehicle data

SMART (MCC) FORTWO COUPE Overview

The SMART (MCC) FORTWO COUPE is a compact city car that has been a popular choice among urban drivers since its introduction in 2001. With a total of 382 registered vehicles, this model has made a significant impact in the UK automotive market, particularly for those seeking a small, efficient vehicle.

Produced until 2012, the FORTWO COUPE spans a model year range from 2001 to 2012. The vehicle has a respectable MOT pass rate of 75.0%, indicating a generally reliable performance in terms of roadworthiness. However, it is important to note that common failures have been recorded, with the most frequent issues arising in categories such as 'Other' (116 failures), brakes (77 failures), and lighting (75 failures).

In terms of fuel type distribution, the majority of FORTWO COUPE models are petrol-powered, accounting for 313 vehicles, while diesel variants number 66, and electric models are limited to just 3. This variety allows potential buyers to choose a model that best fits their driving preferences and environmental considerations.

Colour preferences among owners show a strong inclination towards black (160 vehicles), followed by silver (111), and white (51). The year distribution indicates that the most common models on the road are from 2010 (77 vehicles) and 2009 (78 vehicles), suggesting a trend towards slightly newer models.

Regarding tax status, 264 vehicles are currently taxed, while 75 are untaxed and 43 are declared SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification). The average annual mileage for the FORTWO COUPE stands at 3,327 miles, reflecting its use primarily as a city vehicle.

Data accuracy is subject to change, and the statistics provided are based on the latest available information. For the most current details, prospective buyers should consult official sources.

Reliability and MOT Performance

The SMART (MCC) Fortwo Coupe, produced between 2001 and 2012, has a notable MOT pass rate of 75.0%. This figure indicates a reasonable level of reliability for this compact vehicle, which has undergone a total of 5,847 MOT tests. With 382 registered vehicles in the UK, the Fortwo Coupe demonstrates a solid presence in the market.

When examining common reasons for MOT failures, several categories stand out. The most frequent issues fall under 'Other' categories, accounting for 116 failures. Brakes and lighting are also significant concerns, with 77 and 75 failures respectively. Suspension and tyre problems are less common but still noteworthy, with 39 and 33 failures recorded.

In terms of fuel type distribution, the majority of Fortwo Coupes are petrol-powered, with 313 vehicles falling into this category. Diesel variants number 66, while electric models are quite rare, with only 3 registered. This distribution may influence maintenance and reliability perceptions among potential buyers.

Colour preferences for the Fortwo Coupe show a strong inclination towards black, with 160 vehicles painted in this shade. Silver follows with 111, while white, blue, and grey account for 51, 20, and 16 vehicles respectively. This variety in colour options may appeal to a diverse range of consumers.

Annual mileage for the Fortwo Coupe averages at 3,327 miles, suggesting that many owners use this model primarily for urban commuting. The tax status distribution indicates that 264 vehicles are currently taxed, while 75 are untaxed and 43 are declared SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification).

It is important to note that the data presented here is based on available statistics and may not reflect the most current trends or individual vehicle conditions. Always consult a professional for specific vehicle assessments.

What to Check When Buying Used

When considering a used SMART (MCC) Fortwo Coupe, there are several key factors to evaluate to ensure a sound purchase. With a total of 382 registered vehicles in the UK, it’s essential to be thorough in your checks.

First, review the vehicle's MOT history. The average pass rate for the Fortwo Coupe is 75%, indicating that a quarter of these vehicles may have issues that need addressing. Pay particular attention to common failure categories, which include:

  • Other: 116 failures
  • Brakes: 77 failures
  • Lighting: 75 failures
  • Suspension: 39 failures
  • Tyres: 33 failures

Next, consider the vehicle's mileage. The average annual mileage for the Fortwo Coupe is approximately 3,327 miles, which can help you gauge the wear and tear on the vehicle. A significantly higher mileage may indicate more extensive use and potential issues.

Fuel type is another important aspect. The majority of Fortwo Coupes are petrol (313), with a smaller number being diesel (66) and electric (3). Depending on your preferences and driving habits, this may influence your choice.

Colour preference can also play a role in resale value. The most common colours are black (160), silver (111), and white (51). Choosing a popular colour may enhance the vehicle's appeal when it comes time to sell.

Lastly, check the tax status of the vehicle. Currently, 264 of the registered vehicles are taxed, while 75 are untaxed and 43 are SORN. Ensure that the vehicle you are considering is compliant with tax regulations.

Always verify the accuracy of the data and consider obtaining a professional inspection before finalising your purchase.

Running Costs and Specifications

Running Costs and Specifications

The SMART (MCC) Fortwo Coupe, produced between 2001 and 2012, is a compact vehicle that appeals to urban drivers seeking efficiency and ease of parking. With a total of 382 registration plates recorded, this model has a diverse presence on UK roads.

In terms of fuel type distribution, the majority of Fortwo Coupes are petrol-powered, accounting for 313 units, while diesel variants make up 66, and electric models are limited to just 3. This variety allows potential buyers to choose a model that best fits their driving preferences and environmental considerations.

The average annual mileage for the Fortwo Coupe stands at 3,327 miles, indicating that it is often used for short, city-based journeys. This aligns with its design as a city car, making it an economical choice for urban commuting.

When it comes to running costs, the vehicle has a MOT pass rate of 75%, suggesting that a significant majority of these cars are roadworthy. However, common failures have been noted, with the most frequent issues arising in the categories of 'Other' (116 failures), brakes (77), and lighting (75). This data highlights areas where owners may need to focus their maintenance efforts.

In terms of colour distribution, black is the most popular choice, with 160 units, followed by silver (111) and white (51). This variety in colour options allows buyers to select a vehicle that suits their personal style.

Tax status data reveals that 264 of the registered vehicles are currently taxed, while 75 are untaxed and 43 are declared SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification). This information is crucial for potential buyers to consider when evaluating the overall running costs of the vehicle.

Data accuracy is based on the latest available statistics and may vary over time. Always verify current information before making any decisions.

Alternative Models to Consider

If you're considering the SMART (MCC) Fortwo Coupe, it may be beneficial to explore alternative models that offer similar features and benefits. The compact nature of the Fortwo makes it ideal for urban driving, but there are other vehicles that also excel in this area.

One alternative to consider is the Fiat 500. Known for its stylish design and efficient use of space, the Fiat 500 has a strong following among city drivers. With a range of petrol and diesel engines, it provides a good balance of performance and economy.

Another option is the Mini Cooper. While slightly larger than the Fortwo, the Mini Cooper offers a fun driving experience and a premium feel. Its compact size makes it suitable for city driving, and it boasts a variety of engine options to suit different preferences.

The Peugeot 108 is also worth considering. This small hatchback is designed for urban environments, offering excellent manoeuvrability and a range of efficient engines. Its modern design and technology features make it a competitive choice in the city car segment.

For those interested in electric options, the Honda e presents a stylish and innovative alternative. With its retro design and advanced technology, the Honda e is perfect for environmentally conscious drivers looking for a compact vehicle.

When comparing these alternatives, it's important to consider factors such as fuel type, maintenance costs, and overall reliability. The SMART Fortwo Coupe has a MOT pass rate of 75%, with common failures in categories like brakes and lighting, which may influence your decision.

Ultimately, the best choice will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Always ensure to conduct thorough research and consider test driving multiple models to find the right fit for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What years was the SMART (MCC) Fortwo Coupe produced?

The SMART (MCC) Fortwo Coupe was produced from 2001 to 2012, with a total of 12 model years available.

How many SMART (MCC) Fortwo Coupes are currently registered?

As of now, there are 382 registered SMART (MCC) Fortwo Coupes in the UK.

What is the MOT pass rate for the SMART (MCC) Fortwo Coupe?

The MOT pass rate for this model is 75.0%, indicating a relatively good level of roadworthiness among registered vehicles.

What are the common reasons for MOT failures?

The most common reasons for MOT failures include issues related to brakes (77 failures), lighting (75 failures), and other categories (116 failures). Suspension and tyre problems also contribute to the failure rate, with 39 and 33 failures, respectively.

What fuel types are available for the SMART (MCC) Fortwo Coupe?

The SMART (MCC) Fortwo Coupe is primarily available in petrol (313 units), with a smaller number of diesel (66 units) and electric (3 units) variants.

What colours are most common for this model?

The most common colours for the SMART (MCC) Fortwo Coupe are black (160 units), silver (111 units), and white (51 units). Other colours include blue (20 units) and grey (16 units).

What is the average annual mileage for this model?

The average annual mileage for the SMART (MCC) Fortwo Coupe is approximately 3,327 miles.

Disclaimer: The data provided is based on current statistics and may be subject to change. Always verify with official sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Data Source: This guide is based on analysis of extensive UK vehicle database in our database, including MOT test results and DVLA records.

Disclaimer: This information is provided for guidance only and is based on historical data in our database. Always verify current vehicle details with official sources and get a professional inspection before purchase.

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