2004 Smart Forfour (W454) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Smart Forfour (W454) was the first generation of the Forfour model, so it does not have a direct predecessor within the Forfour line. However, it was developed as a larger companion to the Smart Fortwo, offering four seats instead of two. Compared to the Fortwo, the Forfour is noticeably bigger, with its length of 3752 mm (147.6 inches) surpassing the Fortwo’s approximate length of around 2695 mm (106 inches). This size jump allows the Forfour to accommodate four passengers comfortably, whereas the Fortwo is a two-seater. The Forfour strikes a balance between the ultra-compact size of the Fortwo and the space requirements of small families or urban commuters needing extra passenger or cargo capacity.

The Smart Forfour (W454) weighs 965 kg (approximately 2,127 lbs) when empty, also known as its curb weight. This lightweight contributes to nimble handling and better fuel efficiency in city driving conditions. The maximum weight capacity, or gross vehicle weight, of the Forfour is 1450 kg (about 3,197 lbs). This figure represents the maximum total weight the car can safely carry, including passengers, cargo, and the vehicle's own weight. The difference between the maximum weight and curb weight indicates a payload capacity of approximately 485 kg (1,070 lbs), offering reasonable room for four passengers and some luggage without compromising vehicle stability and safety.

Yes, the Smart Forfour (W454) is well-suited to fit into standard residential garages. With a length of 3752 mm (147.6 inches or just over 12 feet), a width of 1684 mm (66.3 inches or about 5.5 feet), and a height of 1450 mm (57.1 inches or approximately 4.75 feet), it is smaller than many conventional cars, making parking and indoor storage straightforward. Typical residential garages vary but average around 5.5 to 6 meters (18 to 20 feet) in length and about 2.7 meters (9 feet) in width. The Forfour’s compact dimensions ensure it leaves enough clearance space for opening doors and easy access around the vehicle, ideal for urban homeowners with limited parking space.

The Smart Forfour (W454) offers a practical luggage capacity for a city hatchback, suited to everyday errands and weekend trips. With all rear seats in place, the luggage compartment holds 268 liters (approximately 9.46 cubic feet) of cargo. This space is adequate for small suitcases, grocery bags, or a few backpacks. When the rear seats are folded down, the available cargo volume expands significantly to 910 liters (about 32.1 cubic feet). This expanded capacity allows for hauling larger items such as bicycles, larger boxes, or bulkier gear, making the Forfour versatile for small families or active lifestyles requiring additional cargo space occasionally.

The compact width of 1684 mm (66.3 inches) is a crucial advantage for the Smart Forfour (W454) when navigating crowded urban environments. This narrow width allows the vehicle to fit easily into tight parking spaces and pass through narrow streets more comfortably than wider cars. Especially in cities where street parking is limited and vehicle congestion is common, the Forfour’s slim profile helps reduce the risk of door dings and makes parallel parking more manageable. Additionally, a narrower width enhances maneuverability without sacrificing interior comfort for passengers, striking a balance that appeals to city dwellers.

With a height of 1450 mm (57.1 inches), the Smart Forfour (W454) offers good headroom for passengers in both front and rear seats, contributing to a more comfortable cabin environment compared to smaller two-seat counterparts. This relatively moderate height also helps maintain a low center of gravity, which benefits vehicle stability and handling dynamics. Aerodynamically, the height is optimized to reduce wind resistance, enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing noise at higher speeds. Overall, this height strikes an effective balance between interior spaciousness and aerodynamic efficiency, which is important for city-focused compact cars like the Forfour.

The Smart Forfour (W454) utilizes two primary tire sizes depending on trim and optional upgrades: 175/65 R14 and 205/40 R17. The 175/65 R14 tires are smaller and taller, which generally provide a more comfortable ride due to increased sidewall height absorbing road irregularities better. These tires also contribute to good fuel efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The 205/40 R17 tires are wider and lower profile, which improve cornering grip and handling performance due to increased road contact and reduced tire flex, though they may deliver a firmer ride. This variety allows buyers to choose between comfort-oriented or sportier driving characteristics depending on preference.

In comparison with other small hatchbacks from the early 2000s, such as the Toyota Yaris, Ford Fiesta, or Fiat Punto, the Smart Forfour (W454) is distinguished by its ultra-compact length of 3752 mm (147.6 inches), which is slightly shorter than many competitors typically ranging from 3800 to 4000 mm. Its narrow width and lightweight build set it apart by emphasizing city agility and fuel efficiency rather than outright cargo space or performance. The luggage capacity is somewhat smaller than these competitors when seats are up but becomes very competitive with rear seats folded down. The Forfour’s unique positioning focuses on urban convenience with a focus on easy maneuverability, making it particularly attractive in dense city environments where parking and space are at a premium.

The Smart Forfour (W454) has a curb weight of approximately 965 kg (2,127 lbs), which helps keep it light and nimble. Its front-engine, front-wheel-drive configuration places most of the weight over the front axle, aiding traction in everyday driving conditions, especially on wet or slippery surfaces. This weight distribution fosters predictable and stable handling but may lead to understeer in aggressive cornering. The light weight combined with compact dimensions make the Forfour responsive and easy to park or weave through traffic. Drivers will find it well-suited for city driving with sufficient comfort and light steering effort, although it is not designed as a sporty or performance vehicle.