For those who think the smart car is too small and/or unsafe...

Check out this article:
Little smart car bigger than meets the eye • Top Stories (www.HometownAnnapolis.com - The Capital)

The car's safety ratings also defy initial impressions.

Government crash tests result in a front crash rating of four out of five and a side collision rating of five.

That is accomplished through a triple-layered steel frame that forms the capsule for the passenger compartment.

"And people forget the car is designed by Mercedes-Benz," said smart USA spokesman Kai Goddard. The car is manufactured in France.

But it's so little, how can anyone but a diminutive specimen of the species find it comfortable to operate?

Therein lies one of the first surprises. This reporter, sporting more than his share of middle-aged paunch, took a test drive recently and found it roomy enough, even with a smart car rep occupying the seat next to him.

"The guy who designed the car is 6-foot-7," said co-pilot Goddard.

It helps that under the middle of the dashboard the space is open, not crammed with amenities. And the seat is positioned high, which improves visibility and aids vehicle entry and exit.

And check out this video: