Unparalleled Parking
AUTO DEALER HERB CHAMBERS GETS US UP TO SPEED ON THE DIMINUTIVE SMART CAR, WHICH ARRIVED IN THE AREA LAST MONTH.
Have you driven one of the Smart cars? Describe what it's like. Really fun. I drove it all weekend, about 40 to 50 miles, and the gas gauge never came down. You're able to park it anyplace. It also has a nice driving position - it's higher. It might just be perception, but that's what it felt like. Its big windows give great visibility. It's very peppy and responsive and feels solid. The two-seater's trunk is accessible from both inside and out.
What's the price?
They range from $12,000 to $17,000. It's the lowest-priced car made by Mercedes-Benz.
Is it true that there's a waiting list that stretches into next year?
Yes, but some customers have not been able to take the car they ordered because of some change in their situation, so there are a few available for purchase right now. We have about 800 on our list now in Mass. One of the first cars we delivered went to Beacon Hill.
How tall are you? Isn't this car a tight squeeze?
A guy who was 6-3 test-drove it and said it was no problem. I'm 5-10, and it wasn't a squeeze for me at all.
What's your favorite thing about these cars?
Their appearance. They're just so cute, you want to take the car home. It's like seeing a puppy in the window of a pet shop.
How fast can you go? Could I keep up on 128?
You can do 85 on the highway no problem, but it's electronically limited to 90 m.p.h. by a limiter on the engine. There's no shake or shimmy at the highest speeds, either.
What are you driving to work every day?
It varies. Today I took a Range Rover. It was a nasty, rainy day. Sometimes I take the RollsRoyce, on a beautiful day. I love automobiles. I drive all kinds.
If you could bring any car from the past back into production, what would it be?
The Ferrari Daytona from 1972 and 1973. I have three. It's the most beautiful car ever designed.
Buying a new car can be painful, with all the back and forth about price. Why can't it be easier?
We're trying, especially regarding used cars - as of February 1, there's no negotiating on them. There's a three-day, money-back guarantee for anyone with buyer's remorse, or within 30 days, you can make an exchange. This is like the 
