The smart Roadster (factory project code W452) is a compact two-door, rear-mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive sports car introduced in 2003 and manufactured until late 2005. Developed on an elongated and lowered iteration of the smart City-Coupé architecture, it utilized the brand's signature high-strength steel Tridion safety cell. The vehicle was sold in two distinct body configurations: a traditional roadster with a canvas soft-top or removable hardtop roof panels, and the Roadster-Coupé, which featured an enclosed glazed rear glassback design offering enhanced aerodynamics and practical luggage capacity. Power was provided exclusively by a 0.7-liter (698 cc) turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine (Mercedes-Benz M160) available in three output stages: 61 hp, 82 hp, and a tuned Brabus specification delivering 101 hp with a bespoke water-to-air intercooler. Power was sent to the rear wheels via a 6-speed automated manual transmission with paddle shifters. Being the initial and only generation, it pioneered the subcompact lightweight roadster concept for the brand without receiving a direct predecessor or successor. Primary sales markets included Western Europe, the United Kingdom, and select international territories.