SMART (MCC) CABRIOLET (2003)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 316 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
71%
Total Tests (2024)
316
Avg Mileage
70,829 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,540
Is the 2003 SMART (MCC) CABRIOLET reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 11 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the SMART (MCC) brand average of 78%.
At 21 years old, 71% of SMART (MCC) CABRIOLETs from 2003 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 316 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 70,829 miles.
How does the 2003 SMART (MCC) CABRIOLET compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2003 SMART (MCC) CABRIOLET has 70,829 miles on the clock, which is significantly below the expected 155,400 miles for a 21-year-old car. Low-mileage examples may have spent time sitting unused, so check for issues like corroded brakes or perished rubber seals.
Best year to buy a SMART (MCC) CABRIOLET?
The most reliable year is the 2010 model with a 86% MOT pass rate, while the 2003 model has the lowest at 71%. Consider a different year if reliability is a priority.
How much does a 2003 SMART (MCC) CABRIOLET cost to run?
Higher than average due to low pass rate
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
SMART (MCC) CABRIOLET by Year
Checking a specific SMART (MCC) CABRIOLET?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2003 SMART (MCC) CABRIOLET
The 2003 SMART (MCC) CABRIOLET is a city car with a 698cc petrol engine. 316 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. Among all cars from 2003, the average MOT pass rate is 72%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 70,829 miles at 21 years old, SMART (MCC) CABRIOLET owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver. Very low mileage could mean the car has been garaged or used only for short trips, which can cause its own issues like battery drain and moisture buildup.
2003 SMART (MCC) CABRIOLET Fuel Costs
The modest 698cc petrol engine keeps fuel costs low, which is a real advantage for a city car. Expect around 50 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £955 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2003 SMART (MCC) CABRIOLET?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,540 (£128/month), broken down as £955 fuel, £30 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 71% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
SMART (MCC) CABRIOLET Reliability Trend
Newer SMART (MCC) CABRIOLETs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 5 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2003 SMART (MCC) CABRIOLET
At 21 years old, the SMART (MCC) CABRIOLET is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age.
Alternatives to the 2003 SMART (MCC) CABRIOLET
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- NISSAN MICRA (2005) 72% pass rate (+1%) from 27,370 tests
- VAUXHALL CORSA (2004) 68% pass rate (-3%) from 17,048 tests
- KIA PICANTO (2005) 66% pass rate (-5%) from 6,562 tests
- PEUGEOT 107 (2005) 69% pass rate (-2%) from 3,648 tests