Should You Get a Smart Car — Or Maybe a Golf Cart?

It’s a familiar situation: the house is quiet, the kids are grown, and daily errands or short trips don’t feel like they justify a big SUV or a full-size sedan anymore. The idea of driving something smaller, easier to park, and cheaper to run starts to make sense. And that’s when questions pop up — would a smart car make life simpler? Or would a golf cart be enough for local trips?

Both offer unique advantages depending on how — and where — they’ll be used. Here’s what to consider before making a decision.

What Is a Smart Car?

A smart car, commonly referring to the Smart Fortwo or similar compact models, is a tiny, road-legal vehicle designed for city driving. Built for fuel efficiency and parking ease, smart cars are:

Street legal on all public roads
Gas-powered or electric (depending on model)
Designed for two passengers with limited cargo space
Known for extreme fuel efficiency (30–40 MPG or higher)

Smart Car Advantages:

Fits easily in tight parking spots
Lower fuel and maintenance costs than larger vehicles
Easier maneuverability in traffic
Some models available as electric vehicles (EVs)

Smart Car Considerations:

Limited seating (two seats)
Minimal trunk space
Not ideal for highway driving comfort on long trips
Original Smart Fortwo production discontinued in the U.S. (but used models widely available)

Average Cost: $5,000–$15,000 (used market)

What Is a Golf Cart?

A golf cart started as a vehicle for the greens but is now widely used in communities, private properties, and even some residential streets. Modern golf carts are:

Street legal in certain areas (with modifications)
Generally electric, some gas models available
Designed for low-speed use (15–25 MPH max)
Often customizable with accessories like lights, seatbelts, and weather covers

Golf Cart Advantages:

Extremely low operating cost
Easy to drive for short, local errands
Can be street-legal in golf communities or gated neighborhoods
Lower insurance and registration fees (when required)

Golf Cart Considerations:

Speed limitations restrict travel distances
Usually not legal on main roads without modifications
Limited safety features compared to cars
Charging/battery maintenance required

Average Cost: $8,000–$15,000 (new); $3,000–$8,000 (used)

Key Questions to Ask Before Choosing

Where do you plan to drive it?
- Regular streets, gated communities, or private property?
Do you need highway access?
- Smart cars are fine; golf carts aren’t.
What’s your local regulation?
- Some towns allow street-legal golf carts; others don’t.
How far do you drive each day?
- Short neighborhood trips may favor a golf cart; longer commutes call for a smart car.

Smart Car vs. Golf Cart at a Glance

| Feature | Smart Car | Golf Cart | |------------------|-----------------------|--------------------| | Street Legal | Yes (all roads) | Sometimes (local roads only) | | Speed | 60–80 MPH | 15–25 MPH | | Seats | 2 | 2–4 | | Price Range | $5K–$15K (used) | $3K–$15K | | Insurance Cost | Moderate | Low | | Maintenance | Low–Moderate | Low | | Ideal Use | City driving, errands| Short trips, gated communities |

FAQs About Smart Cars and Golf Carts

Can a golf cart be made street-legal?
Yes — but it typically requires lights, mirrors, seat belts, turn signals, and sometimes a VIN registration, depending on state laws.

Are smart cars safe?
Smart cars meet U.S. crash safety standards but offer less protection than full-size vehicles in collisions.

How long do golf cart batteries last?
About 4–6 years with proper maintenance.

Can you drive a smart car in winter?
Yes — they have heaters and standard safety features but aren’t ideal for deep snow or icy roads.

The Bottom Line: Which One Makes More Sense?

For everyday errands around town: A smart car may be the better choice if you need highway access, flexibility, and year-round usability.
For community living and neighborhood runs: A golf cart can be perfect for local trips — simple, affordable, and fun.

Choosing between a smart car and a golf cart depends on how you plan to live — not just where you drive.

Because sometimes, the right choice isn’t about the vehicle itself — it’s about making life easier for the way you actually live.