SMART (MCC) FORTWO COUPE (2003)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 261 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
80%
Total Tests (2024)
261
Avg Mileage
78,856 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,340
Is the 2003 SMART (MCC) FORTWO COUPE reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%.
At 21 years old, 80% of SMART (MCC) FORTWO COUPEs from 2003 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 261 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 78,856 miles.
How does the 2003 SMART (MCC) FORTWO COUPE compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2003 SMART (MCC) FORTWO COUPE has 78,856 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 155,400 miles for a 21-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a SMART (MCC) FORTWO COUPE?
The most reliable year is the 2012 model with a 82% MOT pass rate, while the 2005 model has the lowest at 69%. The 2003 sits between the two at 80%.
How much does a 2003 SMART (MCC) FORTWO COUPE cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
SMART (MCC) FORTWO COUPE by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 87% | 45 | 49,175 mi |
| 2013 | 75% | 68 | 51,042 mi |
| 2012 | 82% | 2,672 | 56,674 mi |
| 2011 | 81% | 4,435 | 64,666 mi |
| 2010 | 78% | 6,941 | 67,253 mi |
| 2009 | 78% | 7,583 | 67,856 mi |
| 2008 | 77% | 6,112 | 70,281 mi |
| 2007 | 75% | 3,224 | 70,264 mi |
| 2006 | 73% | 1,364 | 67,776 mi |
| 2005 | 69% | 1,087 | 70,726 mi |
| 2004 | 73% | 891 | 71,878 mi |
| 2003 | 80% | 261 | 78,856 mi |
| 2002 | 71% | 130 | 65,018 mi |
| 2001 | 70% | 63 | 64,807 mi |
Checking a specific SMART (MCC) FORTWO COUPE?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2003 SMART (MCC) FORTWO COUPE
The 2003 SMART (MCC) FORTWO COUPE is a city car with a 799cc diesel engine. 261 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. It ranks in the top 23% of all 2003 cars for reliability.
With an average of 78,856 miles at 21 years old, SMART (MCC) FORTWO COUPE owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2003 SMART (MCC) FORTWO COUPE Fuel Costs
The modest 799cc diesel engine keeps fuel costs low, which is a real advantage for a city car. Expect around 55 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £905 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2003 SMART (MCC) FORTWO COUPE?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,340 (£112/month), broken down as £905 fuel, £30 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 80% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
SMART (MCC) FORTWO COUPE Reliability Trend
Newer SMART (MCC) FORTWO COUPEs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 5 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2003 SMART (MCC) FORTWO COUPE
At 21 years old, the SMART (MCC) FORTWO COUPE 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. If you're flexible on year, the 2012 model has the highest pass rate at 82%.
Alternatives to the 2003 SMART (MCC) FORTWO COUPE
The SMART (MCC) FORTWO COUPE is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel city cars from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VAUXHALL CORSA (2002) 68% pass rate (-12%) from 9,309 tests
- VAUXHALL COMBO (2005) 67% pass rate (-13%) from 4,689 tests
- FIAT DOBLO (2005) 68% pass rate (-12%) from 1,777 tests
- SMART (MCC) CITY COUPE (2005) 74% pass rate (-6%) from 749 tests