Smart Car vs Fiat 500: The Ultimate City Car Showdown
You’re standing in a showroom, or maybe scrolling through listings online, and you’ve narrowed it down to two iconic city cars—the quirky, space-efficient Smart car and the stylish, fun-loving Fiat 500—and now you have to decide which one actually fits your life better.
TL;DR
The Smart car and Fiat 500 are two of the most recognizable city cars on the market, but they cater to slightly different drivers. The Smart car—especially the Fortwo—is all about extreme compactness, effortless parking, and urban agility. The Fiat 500 offers more style, a more comfortable ride, and better highway manners at the cost of being slightly larger and less efficient. The new electric versions of both cars have changed the game, with the Smart #1, #3, and #5 going bigger and more premium while the Fiat 500e stays true to its retro roots. This comprehensive comparison covers design, performance, interior space, driving experience, reliability, running costs, and safety to help you decide which city car belongs in your driveway.
Key Takeaways
- Smart Fortwo is shorter and easier to park than the Fiat 500
- Fiat 500 has more passenger space and a more comfortable ride
- Smart cars are generally more fuel-efficient than gasoline Fiat 500s
- Fiat 500 has a more stylish interior and more personality
- Smart cars have better safety ratings in some crash tests
- Electric versions of both cars offer completely different driving experiences
- Smart #1, #3, and #5 are now much larger than the Fiat 500
- Reliability favors Smart in some surveys, Fiat in others
- Running costs are comparable, but Smart often edges ahead on fuel economy
Two City Car Icons: A Brief History
Here’s the thing about both of these cars: they have history, personality, and dedicated fan bases that argue passionately about which one is better.
The Smart Story
The Smart car was born from a collaboration between Swiss watchmaker Swatch and German automaker Mercedes-Benz. The name “Smart” actually stands for Swatch Mercedes ART. The original Smart City-Coupé launched in 1998 and was revolutionary—a two-seater that was barely 8 feet long, designed specifically for congested European cities.
Over the years, Smart has evolved from a quirky curiosity to a legitimate city car brand. The Fortwo remained the core model, but Smart also introduced the Forfour (a four-seater) and eventually went all-electric. The latest generation—the Smart #1, #3, and #5—are completely different vehicles, larger, more premium, and built on an all-new electric platform developed with Geely.
The Fiat 500 Story
The original Fiat 500—the Cinquecento—was launched in 1957 and became an Italian icon. It was tiny, affordable, and helped mobilize post-war Italy. The modern Fiat 500 launched in 2007 and was an instant hit, capturing the spirit of the original while offering modern safety and technology.
The Fiat 500 has always been about style and personality. It’s a car that makes people smile. The 500e electric version launched in 2013, and a completely new 500e arrived in 2020, offering competitive range and modern features while keeping that classic retro design.
Size and Dimensions: Which One Fits Your Space?
This is where the differences become immediately obvious. Smart cars are designed to be as small as possible, while the Fiat 500 prioritizes style and comfort within a slightly larger footprint.
Smart Fortwo
- Length: 106.1 inches (2,695 mm)
- Width: 65.4 inches (1,662 mm)
- Height: 61.4 inches (1,560 mm)
- Wheelbase: 73.5 inches (1,867 mm)
- Turning circle: 22.8 feet
The Smart Fortwo is absurdly short—it’s shorter than many pickup trucks are wide. It can park perpendicular to the curb in spaces that no other car can use. The turning circle is legendary; you can do a U-turn on most residential streets without backing up.
Fiat 500 (Hatchback)
- Length: 139.6 inches (3,546 mm)
- Width: 64.1 inches (1,627 mm)
- Height: 58.7 inches (1,492 mm)
- Wheelbase: 90.6 inches (2,300 mm)
- Turning circle: 30.6 feet
The Fiat 500 is over 2.5 feet longer than the Smart Fortwo. It’s still a small car, but it’s more of a traditional subcompact rather than a microcar. The turning circle is decent but nowhere near the Smart’s.
Smart Forfour
- Length: 137.5 inches (3,493 mm)
- Width: 65.4 inches (1,662 mm)
- Height: 61.0 inches (1,550 mm)
- Wheelbase: 98.2 inches (2,494 mm)
The Smart Forfour is much closer to the Fiat 500 in size. It offers four seats and more practicality while still being short enough for city parking.
Smart #1
- Length: 169.1 inches (4,295 mm)
- Width: 71.7 inches (1,822 mm)
- Height: 63.9 inches (1,623 mm)
Here’s where the comparison gets interesting. The Smart #1 is significantly larger than both the Fortwo and the Fiat 500. It’s a small SUV, not a city car in the traditional sense. If you’re considering a new Smart, you’re no longer shopping in the same segment as the Fiat 500.
Winner: Depends on Your Needs
- For extreme urban parking: Smart Fortwo wins easily
- For a balance of size and practicality: Smart Forfour and Fiat 500 are close
- If you need more space: The Smart #1 is much larger than any Fiat 500
Design and Styling: Personality and Appeal
Both cars have strong personalities, but they express them very differently.
Smart Car Design
Smart cars have always been about function and efficiency. The design language is clean, modern, and slightly futuristic. The original Fortwo looked like a tiny spaceship, and the newer models have refined that look with smoother lines and more premium details.
The Tridion safety cell is a defining visual element—it’s a contrasting color safety cage that wraps around the passenger compartment. This gives Smart cars a distinctive two-tone look that you can recognize from across the street.
The Smart #1, #3, and #5 have moved to a more mainstream SUV design. They look like premium electric crossovers, with sleek lighting, flush door handles, and a modern, minimalist aesthetic.
Fiat 500 Design
The Fiat 500 is a design icon for a reason. It captures the spirit of the original 1957 Cinquecento while looking thoroughly modern. The shape is rounded, friendly, and instantly recognizable.
The 500’s design is all about retro charm. The chrome accents, the round headlights, the three-bar grille—they all say “Italian style” without being shouty about it.
The interior of the Fiat 500 is equally stylish. The dashboard, seats, and trim all feature a cohesive design that feels more premium than the price tag suggests. It’s a car that makes you smile every time you get in.
Winner: Fiat 500 (For Pure Style)
This one is subjective, but the Fiat 500 has more personality and style. The Smart car is handsome and functional, but the 500 is an icon.
Interior Space and Comfort
Your daily experience with either car will be shaped by what’s inside.
Smart Fortwo Interior
- Seating: 2 seats
- Cargo space: 7.8 cubic feet (behind seats)
- Cargo with seats folded: Not applicable (no rear seats to fold)
The Smart Fortwo is a pure two-seater. The cabin is surprisingly roomy for two adults—there’s decent headroom and legroom, and the seats are comfortable for city driving.
Cargo space is limited. You can fit a few grocery bags or a small suitcase. The fold-flat passenger seat (available on some models) allows you to carry longer items like skis or a small piece of furniture.
Fiat 500 Interior
- Seating: 4 seats (2+2)
- Cargo space: 9.5 cubic feet (behind rear seats)
- Cargo with seats folded: 30.1 cubic feet
The Fiat 500 has four seats, though the rear seats are tiny. They’re fine for children or adults on short trips, but don’t expect to carry four full-sized adults comfortably.
Cargo space is modest but more usable than the Smart Fortwo. With the rear seats folded, you have a surprising amount of room for a city car.
Smart Forfour Interior
- Seating: 4 seats
- Cargo space: 7.8 cubic feet (behind rear seats)
- Cargo with seats folded: 20.7 cubic feet
The Forfour offers four seats and more cargo room than the Fortwo. The rear seats are still tight, but they’re more usable than the Fiat 500’s rear seats.
Smart #1 Interior
- Seating: 5 seats
- Cargo space: 13.8 cubic feet (behind rear seats)
- Cargo with seats folded: 34.6 cubic feet
The Smart #1 is in a completely different class. It offers genuine space for four adults and a usable cargo area. If interior space matters, the Smart #1 beats the Fiat 500 decisively.
Winner:
- For two people: Smart Fortwo
- For occasional rear passengers: Fiat 500 (slightly better than Smart Forfour)
- For genuine passenger/cargo space: Smart #1
Performance and Driving Experience
How do these cars actually drive? Very differently.
Smart Gasoline Models
Smart’s gasoline engines are three-cylinder units, typically 0.9 to 1.0 liters. Power ranges from 71 to 109 horsepower, depending on the model and tune.
The driving experience is … unique. The automated manual transmission (AMT) is jerky and slow to shift. Acceleration is adequate for city driving but feels strained on highways. The ride is firm, and you feel every bump in the road.
The steering is light and responsive, making parking and maneuvering effortless. The car is so short that you can place it exactly where you want it.
Smart Electric Models (including #1, #3, #5)
The electric Smart models transform the driving experience completely. Instant torque means you accelerate smoothly and quickly off the line. The single-speed transmission eliminates the jerky shifting that plagued the gasoline models.
The Smart #1 and #3 have 272 horsepower in their top trims. 0-60 mph takes about 6.7 seconds—significantly quicker than any Fiat 500. The ride is smoother, quieter, and more refined.
Fiat 500 Gasoline Models
The Fiat 500 has a small four-cylinder engine, typically 1.4 liters, producing 101 horsepower. This is more power than the base Smart Fortwo but similar to the turbo Smart models.
The driving experience is much more conventional than the Smart Fortwo. The Fiat 500 is a proper car with a smooth-shifting automatic or manual transmission. The ride is comfortable, and the car feels settled at highway speeds.
The handling is playful and fun. The 500 is front-wheel-drive with a short wheelbase, which means it feels nimble and responsive in corners.
Fiat 500e Electric
The Fiat 500e is a very different experience from the gasoline 500. It has a 42 kWh battery and a single electric motor producing 118 horsepower.
The 500e is smooth, quiet, and quick off the line. It’s more refined than the gasoline 500 but not as quick as the Smart #1. The range is about 150 miles, which is decent for a city car.
Winner:
- For city driving: Tie—both are excellent
- For highway driving: Fiat 500 (gasoline) is more comfortable
- For sheer acceleration: Smart #1 (EV)
- For overall refinement: Smart EV models
Fuel Economy and Running Costs
One of these cars is significantly more efficient than the other.
Smart Fortwo (Gasoline)
- City MPG: 33-35 mpg
- Highway MPG: 39-41 mpg
- Combined MPG: 36-38 mpg
The Smart Fortwo is very fuel-efficient for a gasoline car. The small engine and light weight pay off at the pump. You’ll spend about $60-80 per month on fuel for average city driving.
Smart Fortwo (Electric EQ)
- Range: 58-70 miles (older models)
- Energy consumption: 3.5 miles/kWh
The older Smart electric cars had limited range, making them true city cars. They’re cheap to run—charging costs about $15-20 per month for average driving.
Smart #1 (Electric)
- Range: 270 miles (WLTP)
- Energy consumption: 4.0 miles/kWh
The Smart #1 has competitive range for a modern EV. Running costs are very low, especially if you charge at home.
Fiat 500 (Gasoline)
- City MPG: 27-30 mpg
- Highway MPG: 35-38 mpg
- Combined MPG: 30-33 mpg
The Fiat 500 is less efficient than the Smart Fortwo. The larger engine and heavier weight mean more fuel consumption. You’ll spend about $80-100 per month on fuel for average city driving.
Fiat 500e (Electric)
- Range: 150 miles (WLTP)
- Energy consumption: 3.3 miles/kWh
The Fiat 500e is efficient but not as efficient as the Smart #1. The range is sufficient for city driving but limited for longer trips.
Winner: Smart
Smart cars—especially the electric models—are cheaper to run than Fiat 500s. The gasoline Fortwo is also significantly more fuel-efficient than the gasoline 500.
Reliability and Maintenance
This is where things get interesting.
Smart Reliability
Smart cars are generally reliable, but they have specific known issues:
- SAM module failures: Electrical gremlins are common in older models
- Transmission quirks: The AMT can be jerky and occasionally problematic
- Cooling system leaks: Aging hoses and thermostats can fail
- Turbo issues: Common in turbocharged models
Owners report that Smart cars are reliable if well-maintained. The engines are robust, and many Smart cars exceed 100,000 miles with minimal problems.
Fiat 500 Reliability
The Fiat 500 has a somewhat mixed reputation for reliability. Common issues include:
- Electrical problems: Similar to Smart, various electrical gremlins
- Transmission issues: Dual-clutch transmissions can be problematic
- Suspension wear: Front suspension components wear out faster than expected
- Interior quality: Some materials don’t hold up well over time
The Fiat 500 is generally reliable but requires attention to maintenance. Some owners report trouble-free ownership, while others experience more problems.
Winner: Slight Edge to Smart
Both cars have their issues, but Smart cars—particularly the newer models—score slightly better in reliability surveys.
Safety
This is where both cars have improved significantly over the years.
Smart Fortwo Safety
The Smart Fortwo has a reputation for being safer than it looks. The Tridion safety cell is a genuine innovation—it’s a steel cage around the occupants that stays intact in a crash.
Euro NCAP ratings:
- 2007 Smart Fortwo: 4 stars (adult occupant protection: 78%)
- 2014 Smart Fortwo: 4 stars
- 2022 Smart #1: 5 stars
The Smart #1’s five-star Euro NCAP rating is excellent and competitive with much larger cars.
Fiat 500 Safety
The Fiat 500 has good safety ratings but hasn’t always matched the Smart’s performance in some tests.
Euro NCAP ratings:
- 2007 Fiat 500: 5 stars (adult occupant protection: 79%)
- 2015 Fiat 500: 3 stars (test standards had become stricter)
- 2020 Fiat 500e: 4 stars
The Fiat 500’s safety is adequate but not class-leading.
Winner: Smart (For Newer Models)
The Smart #1, #3, and #5 have the best safety ratings in this comparison. The older Smart Fortwo and Fiat 500 are more comparable.
Technology and Features
Smart Technology
Smart cars have embraced technology more enthusiastically than Fiat. The newer models feature:
- Digital Instrument Cluster: Full digital display
- Floating Center Display: Large touchscreen
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: Seamless phone integration
- Smart Pilot Assist: Advanced driver assistance
- Over-the-Air Updates: Software updates without visiting a dealer
- Vehicle-to-Load (V2L): Power external devices (Smart #5)
Fiat 500 Technology
The Fiat 500 has modern technology but leans more on style than innovation:
- 7-inch touchscreen: Decent but smaller than the Smart’s
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: Available (wireless on newer models)
- Basic driver assistance: Adaptive cruise control, lane assist
- No OTA updates: Must visit dealer for software updates
Winner: Smart (Especially Newer Models)
Smart has invested more in technology and connectivity, making the newer models more advanced.
Cost Comparison: Purchase Price
Smart Pricing
- Smart Fortwo (used): $8,000-$15,000
- Smart Fortwo EQ (used): $12,000-$18,000
- Smart Forfour (used): $10,000-$16,000
- Smart #1 (new): Starting around $45,000
- Smart #3 (new): Starting around $48,000
- Smart #5 (new): Starting around $55,000
Used Smart cars are very affordable, making them attractive to budget-conscious city drivers. The new Smart models are expensive and compete with premium EVs.
Fiat 500 Pricing
- Fiat 500 (used): $10,000-$18,000
- Fiat 500e (used): $15,000-$22,000
- Fiat 500 (new gasoline): Starting around $22,000
- Fiat 500e (new): Starting around $34,000
The Fiat 500 is priced between the used Smart cars and the new Smart models. The new 500e is more expensive than the gasoline version but still cheaper than the Smart #1.
Winner: Used Smart Cars (Best Value)
Used Smart Fortwo models are incredibly affordable and offer the best value for money in this comparison.
Comparison Table: Smart vs Fiat 500
| Feature | Smart Fortwo | Smart #1 | Fiat 500 Gasoline | Fiat 500e |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Length | 106 inches | 169 inches | 140 inches | 140 inches |
| Seats | 2 | 5 | 4 | 4 |
| Cargo Space | 7.8 cu ft | 13.8 cu ft | 9.5 cu ft | 9.5 cu ft |
| Horsepower | 71-109 hp | 272 hp | 101 hp | 118 hp |
| 0-60 mph | 10-12 sec | 6.7 sec | 9.5 sec | 9.0 sec |
| MPG (Combined) | 36-38 mpg | N/A (EV) | 30-33 mpg | N/A (EV) |
| EV Range | 58-70 miles | 270 miles | N/A | 150 miles |
| Euro NCAP | 4 Stars | 5 Stars | 4 Stars | 4 Stars |
| Starting Price (New) | Discontinued | ~$45,000 | ~$22,000 | ~$34,000 |
| Used Price | $8,000-$15,000 | ~$35,000 | $10,000-$18,000 | $15,000-$22,000 |
Chart: Smart vs Fiat 500 Comparison
Smart vs Fiat 500: Key Metrics Comparison
Relative scores across key categories (higher is better)
The New Smart #1, #3, and #5: A Different Category
If you’re reading this and planning to buy a new car, you need to understand that the Smart #1, #3, and #5 are completely different from the Fiat 500.
The new Smart models are:
- Larger: They’re small SUVs, not city cars
- More expensive: Starting around $45,000
- More powerful: 272+ horsepower
- More technologically advanced: Full digital cockpit, advanced driver assistance
The Fiat 500 is still a city car. It’s small, stylish, and affordable (relatively speaking). The 500e is an excellent electric city car with decent range and lots of personality.
If you want a modern EV, the Smart #1 is the better car. It has more space, more range, and better technology. If you want a traditional city car with retro charm, the Fiat 500 is still the better choice.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose a Smart Car if:
- You live in a dense urban area with tiny parking spaces
- You rarely carry passengers in the back seat
- You want maximum fuel efficiency or EV range
- You’re buying used and want the best value
- You prioritize technology and modern features
- You want the newest, largest Smart models (#1, #3, #5)
Choose a Fiat 500 if:
- You want a car with personality and style
- You occasionally need to carry back-seat passengers
- You want a more comfortable highway ride
- You prefer traditional automatic or manual transmissions
- You want a cheaper new car option (gasoline 500)
- You want a city car with electric range (500e)
- You value brand heritage and retro design
Real-World Owner Experiences
What do actual owners say about their cars?
Smart Fortwo owner: “I park this thing in spots that SUV drivers stare at in disbelief. My monthly fuel bill is laughably small. But highway driving is not its thing—it’s a city car through and through.”
Smart #1 owner: “I traded my Fortwo for the #1 and it’s a completely different car. I have room for my kids, the range is fantastic, and it’s genuinely fast. But I do miss being able to park anywhere.”
Fiat 500 owner: “This car makes me smile every time I look at it. The interior is gorgeous and the ride is surprisingly comfortable. The rear seats are tiny, but I rarely use them anyway.”
Fiat 500e owner: “The electric 500 is the perfect city car. It’s quiet, smooth, and easy to park. The range is about 150 miles, which is plenty for my daily driving. And it looks fabulous.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is smaller, the Smart car or the Fiat 500?
The Smart Fortwo is significantly shorter than the Fiat 500—106 inches vs 140 inches. The Smart Forfour is about the same length as the Fiat 500 at 137 inches.
Is the Fiat 500 more reliable than the Smart car?
Both cars have average reliability. Some surveys give the edge to Smart, while others favor the Fiat 500. Maintenance history matters more than brand reputation.
Which car is better for the highway?
The Fiat 500 is more comfortable on highways because it has a longer wheelbase, better suspension, and a smoother transmission. The Smart Fortwo feels less settled at high speeds.
Which is better for city parking?
The Smart Fortwo wins easily. It’s over two feet shorter and has a much tighter turning circle. You can park it in spaces that would be impossible for the Fiat 500.
Which car is more fuel-efficient?
The Smart Fortwo (gasoline) gets better fuel economy than the gasoline Fiat 500. The EV models depend on the specific models, but the Smart #1 has better range than the Fiat 500e.
*Which car is more expensive to maintain?
Both cars are relatively affordable to maintain, though parts for Smart cars can be more expensive due to availability. Fiat parts are more common and generally cheaper.
Should I buy the Smart #1 or Fiat 500e?
These are different categories. The Smart #1 is larger, more powerful, and more expensive. The Fiat 500e is a true city car with retro style. If you need space and range, buy the Smart. If you want style and don’t need much space, buy the Fiat.
References
Smart vs Fiat 500 Comparison Resources:
Which car would you choose—the Smart car or the Fiat 500? Have you owned either one? Share your experience in the comments below!
