smart Roadster (R452) · smart Roadster

R452

Two-seat fun — the smart roadster.

Production
2003–2005
Body
Roadster
Chassis
R452
smart Roadster (R452) (R452)

Open-air motoring in miniature — the R452 Smart Roadster packed a turbocharged three-cylinder engine behind the seats and a full-length convertible soft top into a package shorter than most parking spaces, yet drove with an enthusiasm that belied its size.

Mercedes-Benz launched the Smart Roadster on the R452 chassis in 2003 as a companion to the C452 Roadster Coupé, sharing the rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout and tridion safety cell that defined Smart's engineering philosophy. The electrohydraulic soft top folded completely flat; the 698 cc and 799 cc turbocharged engines delivered surprising pace in a car weighing less than 800 kilograms. Quick steering, a low center of gravity, and compact dimensions made the Roadster a genuine urban sports car rather than a fashion accessory.

Built from 2003 to 2005, the R452 Smart Roadster was a rare moment of pure driving fun in the Smart catalogue — a car whose production ended too soon but whose enthusiastic character has earned it a devoted following.

R452 interior
Cabin details of the R452, as preserved in period photography.

Every model.

3 model designations across 2003–2005 — engines, chassis codes and production figures for the R452.

ModelModel yearsChassisEngineTransmissionTotal
roadster2004–2006452.434160.922717.476
roadster2004–2006452.432160.921717.408
roadster BRABUS2004–2006452.437160.923717.477
R452 side profile
Studio profile of the R452 — the proportions that defined this chassis.
R452 rear three-quarter view
Rear three-quarter view of the R452.